U.S. negotiators say the release of the prisoners is proof that even fierce adversaries can sometimes find their way to an agreement. But the deal almost didn’t happen.
Tag: Political Prisoners
Who Are the Detainees Released by the U.S. and Iran?
Iran has freed five Americans, while the U.S. has agreed to unfreeze $6 billion in Iranian assets and to dismiss federal charges against five imprisoned Iranians.
Iran Releases 5 Americans in Prisoner Swap as U.S. Unfreezes Oil Funds
The terms of the deal have generated intense criticism from Republicans, even as the White House insists Iran will be prevented from spending the money on anything except humanitarian goods.
U.S. Ambassador to Russia Visits Jailed WSJ Reporter Evan Gershkovich
‘He remains strong and is keeping up with the news,’ the American diplomat said.
Bangladeshi Activists Sentenced to Prison for a Report the Government Dislikes
The jail time in response to a report the government said spread misinformation stirs alarm about the nation’s deepening political repression.
U.S. Approves $235 Million in Egypt Aid, Choosing Security Over Rights
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken overruled congressional restrictions on U.S. military aid tied to Egypt’s dismal human rights record.
State Dept. Defends Limited Release of Iranian Funds for Prisoners
Republicans are complaining about a key step toward completing a deal that will give Tehran access to $6 billion for humanitarian purposes.
Nelia Sancho, Beauty Queen Turned Defiant Rights Activist, Dies at 71
She had been competing in pageants in the Philippines, but she found her calling when she observed the offenses of the Marcos regime firsthand.
Swedish E.U. Official Johan Floderus Held in Iran in Brutal Conditions
Relatives of Johan Floderus have released details of his incarceration since April 2022, revving up a public campaign on his birthday to bring him home.
Mass Hunger Strike in Bahrain Prison Sets Off Rare Protests
In a kingdom that crushed an Arab Spring uprising more than a decade ago, prisoners are now on hunger strike to demand better conditions, fueling protests in support of their cause.