French Nationals Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris Released from Iran’s Evin Prison: President Macron Welcomes a “First Step” Toward Their Return
In a significant diplomatic development, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris, two French citizens detained in Iran for the past three years, have been released from Tehran’s Evin Prison and are now on their way to the French Embassy in the Iranian capital.
President Macron expressed relief and optimism following the news, describing the release as a “first step” in ongoing negotiations aimed at securing their full return to France.
“I welcome this first step,” Macron stated in an official message. “Dialogue continues to ensure their return to France as quickly as possible. We are working tirelessly toward this goal, and I would like to thank our embassy and all state services for their dedication and constant efforts.”
The case of Kohler and Paris has been a long-standing point of diplomatic tension between France and Iran. The pair were arrested in May 2022 and accused of engaging in activities deemed hostile to Iranian state security — allegations that French authorities have consistently rejected, maintaining that the two were innocent and victims of politically motivated detentions.
Their release marks an important shift in relations, coming amid cautious diplomatic engagement between Paris and Tehran. While the circumstances surrounding their release remain undisclosed, officials have confirmed that discussions are ongoing to facilitate their safe return to France.
Evin Prison, where they were held, is notorious for housing political prisoners, journalists, and foreign nationals accused of espionage or anti-state activities. Numerous human rights organizations have criticized Iran’s use of foreign detainees as leverage in political negotiations.
President Macron’s statement underscores France’s continued commitment to protecting its citizens abroad and pursuing diplomatic solutions to complex international issues. French officials, including diplomats at the Embassy of France in Tehran, have reportedly worked “day and night” to achieve progress in the case.
This development represents a hopeful milestone in a broader effort by France and its European partners to address arbitrary detentions of foreign nationals in Iran.
As Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris begin their journey back under the protection of French diplomatic services, their families and supporters in France are now looking forward to what could soon be a long-awaited reunion.
For now, the French government remains cautious yet optimistic, with President Macron reaffirming his stance: “We will continue our work relentlessly until they are safely home.”
