French Citizens Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris Released After 3.5 Years in Iran, En Route Back to France

French citizens Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris have been freed after enduring three and a half years of detention in Iran. Their release was announced on April 7 by French President Emmanuel Macron, who confirmed that the pair are currently on their way back to France.

Kohler and Paris were detained in Iran and sentenced in October to 20 and 17 years in prison, respectively, on charges of espionage, including allegations of working for Israel. Although they were released from prison in early November, they had been kept under house arrest at the French embassy and barred from leaving Iran until now.

The French government credited the successful negotiations and release to the mediation efforts of the Omani authorities. President Macron publicly thanked Oman, alongside French state services and citizens who tirelessly advocated for Kohler and Paris’s return.

According to the French diplomatic entourage, the two left Iran early on Tuesday in a diplomatic convoy escorted by the French ambassador and have safely reached Azerbaijan as part of their journey back. Supporters expressed immense joy at the news—Marie-Brigitte Huet, spokesperson for Jacques Paris's support committee, conveyed her happiness and indicated that more details will be shared once they return to France.

President Macron emphasized the relief felt by the families and the French community, stating, "Cécile Kohler et Jacques Paris sont libres et en chemin vers le territoire français, après trois ans et demi de détention en Iran. C’est un soulagement pour nous tous et évidemment pour leurs familles."

This development marks a significant diplomatic achievement after years of tense relations, highlighting the key role of international mediation and persistent advocacy by the French government and civil society. Their return is keenly awaited on French soil, offering a hopeful conclusion to a challenging chapter for Kohler, Paris, and their families.