Iran Releases German Journalists Arrested Last Year

Iranian authorities released two German journalists from prison over the weekend. Marcus Hellwig and Jens Koch were arrested last October and sentenced to 20 months in prison on espionage charges after interviewing the son of Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani, an Iranian woman who was sentenced to death by stoning for allegedly committing adultery.

Hellwig and Koch’s prison time was commuted to a fine of $50,000 each by the Revolution Court. "The Germans deserved to have their punishment commuted and enjoy Islamic mercy,” the court said.

Hellwig and Koch’s release came after German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle visited Tehran on Saturday. He accompanied the men to Berlin Sunday morning. The ministry said both men are in good condition.

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