US calls on Iran to release American hikers
By DPA, IANSFriday, October 30, 2009
WASHINGTON - The US called on Iran Friday to immediately release three Americans who were arrested in July after they wandered into Iran while hiking in Iraq.
Shane Bauer, Sarah Shourd and Josh Fattal should be released under an international agreement because they have been held for more than 90 days without charges or legal representation, a US State Department spokeswoman said.
“We urge the Iranians to release these three Americans without further delay,” she said.
The State Department confirmed that the Swiss ambassador met the three hikers Thursday, the second time consular access was grated. For legal reasons, the State Department did not provide details on the visit.
The US and Iran do not have formal relations. The Swiss represent US interests in Tehran.
