PARIS (AP) — The Iranian government has confirmed the detention of a French-German cyclist named Lennart Monterlos, who disappeared while traveling through Iran last month. This revelation comes from an interview with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, reported by the French newspaper Le Monde on Friday.

According to Araghchi, Monterlos "was detained for having committed an infraction." However, he did not provide specific details regarding the nature of the alleged offense. The foreign minister's statement marks the first official confirmation that Monterlos is being held in Iran, where he was last heard from in mid-June.

The teenager was reportedly on a cycling expedition across the country when he vanished. Le Monde’s report indicates that the incident raised alarm, particularly among Monterlos's family and authorities in France. According to the French Foreign Ministry, the French embassy in Tehran has been notified of the situation, and efforts are being made to ensure the well-being of their national.

While the French Foreign Ministry has not confirmed the details of Monterlos's detention, they have acknowledged their ongoing communications with Iranian authorities to gather more information. The Ministry also stated that it is in contact with Monterlos's family, expressing concerns over his security, while simultaneously reiterating previous safety warnings advising French nationals against traveling to Iran.

This situation highlights the increasing tensions and complexities surrounding foreign nationals in Iran, especially in light of political issues and safety concerns. As the details of Lennart Monterlos's case unfold, it serves as a critical reminder of the challenges faced by travelers venturing into regions with geopolitical sensitivity.