A French yoga teacher imprisoned in Venezuela for over a year has been released, her family announced November 16, 2024.Iryna Mestre Alvarez, 32, was detained in June 2023 and accused of terrorism-related offenses, allegations widely dismissed by French authorities and human rights groups.
The release follows months of diplomatic pressure from France and international advocacy for mestre Alvarez’s freedom. Her case became a focal point in strained relations between Paris and Caracas, highlighting concerns over due process and political detentions in venezuela. Mestre Alvarez is expected to return to France with assistance from French consular officials, though details of her travel arrangements remain closely held.
Mestre Alvarez’s father, Jean-Pierre Mestre, confirmed the news, stating his daughter was “doing well” and expressed relief at her impending return. “We have been waiting for this moment for so long,” he said, according to reports from Le Figaro.
The yoga instructor was initially arrested alongside her Venezuelan partner, Lorent Saleh, who remains detained. Saleh, a Colombian-Venezuelan businessman, faces similar charges. French officials have consistently maintained that both individuals were victims of a politically motivated prosecution.
Venezuela has been under increased international scrutiny regarding its human rights record, with numerous reports detailing arbitrary arrests and detentions of political opponents and foreign nationals. The release of Mestre Alvarez is seen as a potential, albeit limited, sign of easing tensions and a possible step towards addressing concerns over the rule of law in the South American nation.
