Kerry calls for Abedini's release
Secretary of State John Kerry is finally calling for the release of Boise Pastor Saeed Abedini who's being held in an Iranian prison.
Abedini's wife had been calling for assistance from the State Department for months.
Below is Kerry's statement:
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesperson
March 22, 2013
2013/0333
STATEMENT BY SECRETARY KERRY
Detained U.S. Citizen Saeed Abedini
I am deeply concerned about the fate of U.S citizen Saeed Abedini, who has been detained for nearly six months and was sentenced to eight years in prison in Iran on charges related to his religious beliefs. I am disturbed by reports that Mr. Abedini has suffered physical and psychological abuse in prison, and that his condition has become increasingly dire. Such mistreatment violates international norms as well as Iran’s own laws.
I am also troubled by the lack of due process in Mr. Abedini’s case and Iran’s continued refusal to allow consular access by Swiss authorities, the U.S. protecting power in Iran. I welcome reports that Mr. Abedini was examined by a physician and expect Iranian authorities to honor their commitment to allow Mr. Abedini to receive treatment for these injuries from a specialist outside the prison. The best outcome for Mr. Abedini is that he be immediately released.
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