France's Foreign Ministry says Brière was in Iran for the purpose of holiday making. They say that Brière holds dual French and Iranian citizenship but does not hold an Iranian Passport.
There are more than a dozen foreign nationals held in Iran. It has been speculated that some may be being held as leverage during ongoing nuclear negotiations, being held between Iran and Europe.
The US pulled out of the nuclear agreement in 2018, but France continues to be in talks with Iran.
Tourists targeted
In 2017 a pair of Australian Backpackers were arrested for using a drone to film their travels through Iran.
Jolie King and Mark Firkin were later released from Evin Prison.
Drone use is legal with a permit in Iran but there are strict conditions and penalties. The couple were arrested over photos and videos published via their blog The Way Overland.
New Zealand's MFAT advises travellers to be cautious with what they take pictures of while travelling in Iran.
"The use of drones or other unmanned aerial vehicles is very tightly controlled," it says. "It is strongly advisable that travellers refrain at all times from using these items for photography or otherwise."
Iran also does not recognise dual nationality and will try visitors who are eligible for citizenship as Iranian nationals.
"If you're a dual New Zealand/Iranian national, it is highly unlikely the New Zealand Government would be allowed to assist if you're arrested or detained."
