Tehran Expresses Hope for Swift Resolution in France–Iran Detainee Cases

 Iran voiced optimism on Monday that a French couple detained in Tehran and an Iranian citizen held in France could soon be released, as both nations continue reviewing the high-profile cases that have strained diplomatic relations.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei told reporters during his weekly briefing that “the decision regarding the release of these two individuals and Ms. Esfandiari is being reviewed by the relevant authorities.” He added, “We hope that, once the necessary procedures are completed, this will happen soon.”

Baqaei emphasized that the two cases — involving French nationals Cecile Kohler and Jacques Paris, and Iranian citizen Mahdieh Esfandiari — are “separate matters.”

Esfandiari was arrested in France in February on allegations of promoting terrorism through social media, charges that Iran has repeatedly denounced as “arbitrary” and politically motivated.

Meanwhile, Tehran accuses Kohler and Paris — detained since May 2022 — of espionage on behalf of Israel, Iran’s long-standing adversary. “Two French nationals who were arrested in Iran face clearly defined charges,” Baqaei said, while asserting that Esfandiari’s detention “lacked any legally acceptable basis.”

The diplomatic tension briefly escalated earlier this year when France lodged a complaint with the International Court of Justice, accusing Iran of violating the Vienna Convention on consular relations. Paris later withdrew the case after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that a potential prisoner exchange involving the trio was nearing completion.

While no official timeline has been announced, Monday’s remarks suggest that a negotiated resolution may be within reach, signaling cautious hope for the release of all three detainees and a possible thaw in France–Iran relations.