French Couple Freed After 3 Years in Iran Prison

Two French citizens, Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris, arrived in Paris on Wednesday, having spent over three years in a notorious Iranian prison. They were released a day prior, ending their detention on espionage charges that France has consistently denounced as baseless. The couple, both former educators, were arrested in 2022 while on a tourist visit to Iran.

They were subsequently held in Tehran's Evin prison, a facility known for housing dissidents and political prisoners. Describing their ordeal, Mr. Paris stated they were 'state hostages,' denied legal counsel and contact with families, and lived under constant threat. Ms. Kohler, a literature teacher, and Mr. Paris, a retired mathematics teacher, spoke of enduring 'daily horror' within the prison.

Upon their arrival in Paris, the couple, appearing tired but composed, were met and embraced by President Emmanuel Macron outside the Élysée Palace. They conveyed profound thanks to their supporters, including family, friends, and diplomatic staff, for their unwavering assistance throughout their harrowing experience. Ms. Kohler shared a message of hope, underscoring that they clung to it until their eventual release.