Esprit editors Olivier Mongin and Marc-Olivier Padis have confirmed news reports that the Iranian-Canadian intellectual Ramin Jahanbegloo was released on bail from the Evin prison in Tehran on Wednesday, 30 August.

Jahanbegloo was arrested four months ago on spying charges, as we reported in May. It is thought that his release is connected to his alleged confession made in prison that he was participating in a "velvet revolution" in Iran.

Eurozine shares Esprit's happiness at the news of Jahanbegloo's release but also their concern over his future. Even though Jahanbegloo has not been formally charged, it is possible that he will have to face trial under conditions that are unlikely to be fair.

Published 2006-08-31

Original in English
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