Iran Couple: French FM Denounces Spy Charges
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has strongly denounced the spy charges against French citizens Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris, held in Iran. He demands their immediate release, calling the accusations “unjustified and unfounded.” The two have been detained for over three years, adding to the escalating tensions in the region. The delicate diplomatic role France plays in the Middle East is highlighted as this crisis unfolds. The couple was recently moved following Israeli strikes near Evin Prison, increasing the uncertainty surrounding their case. Reports suggest they face severe penalties,including potential death,a terrifying prospect for France. News Directory 3 provides breaking updates as France continues to press for their release; the situation underscores the complex dynamics of international relations. discover what’s next in this developing story.
France Denounces Spy Charges Against Nationals Held in Iran
Updated July 3, 2025
PARIS – French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot on Thursday condemned the espionage accusations leveled against two French citizens, Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris, who have been detained in Iran for over three years. barrot described the charges as “unjustified and unfounded,” amid escalating tensions in the region.
According to Barrot, France has not received formal notification from Iranian authorities regarding the charges, which reportedly include spying for Israel. He stated that if the charges are confirmed, France woudl consider them “totally unjustified and unfounded” and reiterated the call for the couple’s “immediate, unconditional release.” The situation highlights the delicate diplomatic role France plays in the Middle East.
Kohler, 40, and Paris, 72, were arrested in May 2022. Until recently, they were held at Tehran’s Evin Prison, notorious for housing dual nationals and Westerners frequently enough used by Iran as bargaining chips in diplomatic negotiations.The French government is actively working to secure their release and ensure their well-being.
Earlier this week, a French diplomat visited Kohler and Paris, a move prompted by their families’ demands for proof of life following recent Israeli strikes near the prison. The visit underscores the ongoing concern for their safety and the complexities of international relations.
Noemie kohler, Cécile’s sister, revealed in a BFM TV interview Thursday that the couple had been charged with spying for israel, conspiring to overthrow the Iranian regime, and “corruption on Earth.” The accusations have heightened concerns about their fate.
“Our understanding … is that they face death penalty,” she said. “We’re really extremely worried about their psychological state and the trauma of the bombings.”
Following the Israeli strikes, Kohler and Paris were moved from Evin Prison to a location south of Tehran, their current whereabouts unknown, according to Noemie Kohler. This transfer adds another layer of uncertainty to their already precarious situation.
what’s next
France continues to press for the release of its citizens and is seeking further clarification from Iranian authorities regarding the charges and their legal basis. The case remains a high priority for the French government, which is exploring all available diplomatic avenues to resolve the situation.