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Paris, June 30, 2025 (OLA NEWS) – The fate of French nationals Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris, detained in Iran since May 7, 2022, has become a national concern after their families lost all contact with them following the bombing of Evin prison in Tehran. On Saturday, supporters gathered in front of the National Assembly in Paris, demanding urgent action and proof of life for the two hostages, whose disappearance has triggered widespread alarm among human rights groups and the French government.
Cecile Kohler, a 40-year-old literature teacher, and Jacques Paris, a retired mathematics professor, were arrested during a tourist trip and accused of espionage by Iranian authorities. Both have been held in Section 209 of Evin prison, notorious for harsh conditions and prolonged isolation. According to their families and support committees, the two French citizens have endured inhumane treatment: sleeping on the floor in cells with lights permanently on, extremely limited access to fresh air, and rare, closely monitored communications with the outside world. Forced confessions were broadcast on Iranian state television, a practice condemned by France as a violation of international law. The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs has repeatedly denounced their detention as “state hostage-taking” and a form of political blackmail.
The situation escalated after the Israeli airstrike on Evin prison on June 23, which killed dozens and left many detainees unaccounted for. Since then, Iranian authorities have announced the transfer of prisoners but provided no names or details, leaving families in anguish. The support committee and families accuse Iran of “forced disappearance” and urge the French government to seek immediate exfiltration on humanitarian grounds.
Despite repeated requests, consular access remains rare and heavily restricted, with the last brief visit taking place in April 2025. The French government has intensified diplomatic efforts and filed complaints with international bodies, but the fate of Kohler and Paris remains uncertain. Their case has become emblematic of Iran’s use of hostage diplomacy amid heightened regional tensions. As public mobilization grows, families and supporters vow to continue their campaign until the safe return of Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris.
Reporting and pictures by Henri Welschinger, Laura L’helgoualch, OLA NEWS Paris; editing by Alexandre Minguez
