Oxidative debenzylation of N-benzyl aromatic amines using DMSO as a non-toxic oxidant and catalyzed by TsOH gave N-phenylimines, which were spontaneously hydrolyzed to form anilines and benzaldehydes in good yields. This reaction employs mild, metal-free conditions. The conditions are also suitable for the debenzylation of benzylphenylethers.