Iran releases two French citizens: what is known about the exchange

French President Emmanuel Macron announced that Iran has released two French citizens - Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris, who have been imprisoned since 2022 on espionage charges. The head of state called this 'the first step' and emphasized that dialogue with the Iranian side continues in order to ensure the quickest possible return of Kohler and Paris to France.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barot also confirmed that the released individuals are currently safe. The French citizens were released on bail and will remain on Iranian territory under supervision until the completion of the legal process.

In September 2025, the French authorities withdrew the case against Iran from the International Court of Justice, which analysts interpreted as a step towards a prisoner exchange.

Paris has repeatedly criticized Iran for using foreigners as 'hostages' to exert pressure on other countries or to achieve concessions. Tehran denies such practices, but Western human rights advocates consider them widespread.

Iran has released two French citizens who have been held in prison since 2022. French authorities view this as the first step towards the return of the citizens to their country. The case against Iran at the International Court of Justice was withdrawn in September 2025, which may indicate a possibility of a prisoner exchange.