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French Nationals in Iran Confirmed Alive as Death Penalty Charges Surface

A consular visit by the French chargé d’affaires in Tehran confirmed the couple survived an Israeli strike, revealing fresh charges that carry the death penalty.

The portraits of French nationals Cecile Kohler, 40, left, and Jacques Paris, 72, imprisoned for more than 3 years in Iran are seen set up in front of the French National Assembly, in Paris, Thursday, July 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Aurelien Morissard)
People walk past the portraits of French nationals Cecile Kohler, 40, left, and Jacques Paris, 72, imprisoned for more than 3 years in Iran set up in front of the French National Assembly in Paris, Thursday, July 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Aurelien Morissard)
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Overview

  • A French chargé d’affaires in Tehran visited the detained couple this week at an undisclosed facility, confirming they survived a June 23 Israeli airstrike on Evin Prison.
  • Diplomatic and family sources report Iranian authorities have formally charged them with spying for Israel’s Mossad, conspiracy to overthrow the regime and corruption, offences punishable by death.
  • Iran has yet to publicly confirm the new accusations, and Kohler and Paris remain without access to independent legal counsel.
  • Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot branded the charges “completely unfounded” and called for the couple’s immediate, unconditional release.
  • The French government has tied any reinstatement or tightening of sanctions against Iran to the swift liberation of the detained pair.