U.S. confirms pastor sentenced to 8 years in Iran
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 28 January 2013 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, U.S. confirms pastor sentenced to 8 years in Iran, 28 January 2013, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5122359ea.html [accessed 31 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
January 28, 2013
Iranian-American pastor Saeed Abedini
The U.S. State Department has confirmed that Iranian authorities have sentenced an American Christian pastor of Iranian origin to eight years in prison.
Spokesman Darby Holladay said Washington is calling on Iran to respect Saeed Abedini's human rights and release him.
Earlier this month, Abedini reportedly went on trial on charges of attempting to undermine Iranian state security by creating a network of Christian churches in private homes.
The pastor, who is of Iranian origin but lives in the United States, denies the charges.
The U.S. spokesman said the State Department is in close contact with Abedini's family.
He also called on Iran to uphold the right of freedom of religion.
A rights group, the American Center for Law and Justice, has alleged that Abedini was beaten and tortured during his detention.
Based on reporting by AP and Reuters
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
