An iron-based metal–organic framework [Fe(BTC) (BTC: 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylate)] has been shown to be an active and heterogeneous catalyst for both oxidative cyclization of methylenebisnaphthols and a modern tandem process (an in situ oxidation-aminal formation-oxidation sequence). Such a potential catalytic utility of Fe(BTC) makes it quite attractive for sustainable industrial chemistry.