Iran Releases French Citizens Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris After 3 Years

Release of French Nationals from Iran

• 🇫🇷 French citizens Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris have been released on bail after being detained in Iran since May 2022.
• 📍 The pair, arrested at Tehran airport on tourist visas, were accused of spying for a foreign power.
• ⚖️ They were held separately in the high-security Evan prison for over 200 days without trial, facing conditions described as torture by rights groups and family.

Detention Conditions and Charges

• ⛓️ Detainees reportedly slept on the floor with constant artificial lighting, were denied an independent lawyer, and had heavily supervised contact with their embassy.
• 📄 In October, an Iranian court sentenced Kohler and Paris to lengthy prison terms.
• 🌍 The circumstances of their release are unclear but may involve diplomatic efforts by France.

Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts

• 🤝 While released on bail and under surveillance, French authorities are working to secure their definitive release from Iran.
• ✈️ Kohler and Paris have arrived safely at the French embassy and are under its protection.