French Nationals Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris Released in Iran but Await Final Return Amid Prisoner Exchange Talks
French nationals Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris have been released from Iranian detention but remain in Tehran pending full release amidst an ongoing prisoner exchange involving Iranian detainee Mahdieh Esfandiari.
- • Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris were released after three and a half years in Iranian detention but remain at the French embassy in Tehran.
- • They were arrested on spying allegations which they deny and are currently under bail and surveillance per Iranian authorities.
- • French President Emmanuel Macron and Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot expressed ongoing commitment to their unconditional release and return to France.
- • Mahdieh Esfandiari, an Iranian citizen detained in France for promoting terrorism, was transferred to the Iranian embassy in Paris as part of a prisoner exchange agreement.
Key details
After three and a half years detained in Iran on espionage charges they deny, French teachers Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris have been released and are currently staying at the French embassy in Tehran. Despite their release, they are not yet permitted to leave Iran as French officials continue diplomatic efforts for their unconditional return, highlighting the complexity of ongoing negotiations. The Iranian government has stated the couple was released on bail and remains under surveillance until further judicial proceedings.
French President Emmanuel Macron engaged in an emotional video call with Kohler and Paris following their release, expressing support and underscoring France's commitment to securing their definitive freedom. Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot emphasized that this development represents only a step toward full liberty, affirming France's dedication to facilitating their swift return while maintaining discreet diplomatic talks.
Central to these negotiations is the case of Iranian citizen Mahdieh Esfandiari, arrested in France in February 2025 on charges of promoting terrorism through social media posts, particularly those related to antisemitic content and recent attacks in Israel. As part of a prisoner exchange, Esfandiari has been transferred to the Iranian embassy in Paris under judicial control, with her trial scheduled for January 2026. Iranian authorities and her lawyer have acknowledged her conditional release but note restrictions remain due to trial proceedings.
This exchange highlights broader tensions and efforts between France and Iran involving several detainees, with at least twenty other Westerners reportedly still held in Iran. Kohler and Paris’s release marks a significant diplomatic step, though the timeline for their final departure from Iran remains uncertain as France continues negotiations to end their ordeal fully.