French tour operators are expressing anger over government-imposed financial burdens following the recent security crisis in Iran. The Seto union, representing the sector, has filed an appeal with the Council of State against a decree requiring organizers to cover repatriation costs for travelers, a measure activated after France raised its travel advisory for Iran.
Operators argue they are being unfairly penalized for a geopolitical situation beyond their control. "We have the feeling of paying twice," said Seto President Didier Arino, noting that companies already bear significant costs for canceling trips and face additional, mandatory repatriation fees. The disputed decree was issued following an attack on the French embassy in Tehran in late 2025, which prompted heightened travel warnings.
The industry's appeal highlights a ongoing conflict between business obligations and state security protocols. While the government asserts the measure protects citizens, operators contend it sets a problematic precedent, forcing them to absorb costs for crises they cannot predict or prevent.
