Cécile Kohler, a French teacher from Nanterre, and Jacques Paris, a retired math teacher from Nantes, have been arbitrarily imprisoned in Iran since May 2022, marking three years of detention as of May 7, 2025. The couple, who were on vacation in Iran, was arrested under accusations of espionage, a claim they and their families have vehemently denied. Their plight has drawn significant attention, with numerous rallies planned across France to demand their release.
During their time in prison, Kohler and Paris have endured harrowing conditions in section 209 of Evin prison in Tehran, a facility notorious for housing political prisoners. Reports indicate that Kohler, 40, shares a 9 square meter cell without windows with other women, subjected to continuous artificial lighting and limited access to the outside world. The couple has not been formally charged or tried, living in a state of uncertainty and fear.
On May 5, 2025, the couple managed to speak to Kohler's parents for about ten minutes, although the call was heavily monitored, leaving their family anxious about their well-being. "Cécile and Jacques are devastated by what is happening to them. They are both at the end of their rope and appear very weakened," said Me Karine Rivoallan, Kohler's lawyer, in an interview with 20 Minutes. She expressed concern over the couple's deteriorating health and psychological state, noting that Kohler recites poetry in her mind each night to cope with the horrors of their situation.
French authorities have taken steps to address the situation. President Emmanuel Macron stated, "France is acting tirelessly to secure their release," emphasizing the government's commitment to their case. He assured their families of unwavering support, and the French government has announced plans to file a complaint against Tehran at the International Court of Justice for violating consular rights.
The situation has sparked widespread concern among French officials. Education Minister Elisabeth Borne, who has also expressed her worries, indicated that the portraits of Kohler and Paris would be displayed at the Ministry of National Education to ensure they are not forgotten. "It has now been three years since they have been arbitrarily detained in Iran," she stated on France Inter, reiterating the government's efforts to secure their freedom.
As part of the ongoing advocacy for their release, around fifty rallies are organized throughout France on the anniversary of their detention. Events are scheduled in cities like Colmar, Mulhouse, Nancy, Reims, Sélestat, and Strasbourg, with participants gathering to show solidarity and raise awareness about the couple's plight. These demonstrations are seen as crucial for maintaining public attention on their case, as their lawyer noted that Kohler and Paris draw strength from the support they receive from their compatriots.
Human rights advocates and officials have condemned the treatment of Kohler and Paris, labeling it as a form of torture. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot criticized the Iranian regime's policy of using hostages as political pawns, warning other French citizens against traveling to Iran due to the risks of arbitrary detention. "They are victims of the Iranian regime, victims of arbitrariness, and victims of injustice," Barrot stated, stressing the need for international action against such practices.
Despite the grim circumstances, there is a glimmer of hope as at least five other French citizens have been released from Iranian custody in recent years. However, Kohler and Paris hold the unfortunate record of the longest detention among French nationals, with three years of incarceration, including three months in total isolation. The European Union has also responded by imposing sanctions on Iranian officials involved in their detention.
As the rallies take place, families and friends of Kohler and Paris continue to advocate for their release, hoping that increased visibility will pressure the Iranian government to reconsider their unjust imprisonment. The ongoing situation highlights the broader issues of human rights and the treatment of foreign nationals in Iran, as well as the challenges faced by families of those detained.
In a poignant reminder of the personal impact of these events, students at Robert-Beltz college in Soultz created an artistic tribute to Kohler, intertwining the words "Cécile" and "Libre" (Free) in a vibrant display. This collaborative effort aimed to bring joy to Kohler and her family, emphasizing that they are not alone in their struggle.
This ongoing saga of Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris underscores the complexities of international relations and the dire consequences of political tensions. As their families and supporters rally for justice, the hope remains that their voices will be heard, and their freedom restored.
