Klobuchar, Franken Statements on Sentencing of U.S. Hikers Jailed in Iran

Statement

U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken today made the following statements regarding the announcement that Iran has sentenced two U.S. hikers, Shane Bauer and Josh Fattal, to 8 years in Iranian prison on charges of espionage and illegal entry. The hikers have been jailed in Iran for two years. Shane Bauer is a former Minnesotan.

"This latest discouraging news is continuing evidence of the Iranian government's intransigence and callous treatment of these two young hikers," Klobuchar said. "These prison sentences, just like the original charges, are simply unwarranted. With these unreasonable actions, Iran's government further isolates itself in the eyes of the world. I continue to urge the Iranian government to make a demonstration of humanitarian goodwill by releasing these two young men and allowing them to return home to their families."

"I'm deeply disappointed by the news of Shane and Josh being sentenced by the Iranian judiciary," Sen. Franken said. "Our thoughts and prayers remain with their families, and I will continue to remain in close communication with Shane Bauer's family, who have been so strong throughout this difficult ordeal. We will continue doing everything possible to see Shane and Josh released and reunited with their families."

Klobuchar and Franken have continually advocated for the hikers' release since they were detained in July of 2009. Klobuchar and Franken have met with and spoken repeatedly to the Swiss ambassadors to both the U.S. and Iran. Klobuchar and Franken also introduced a resolution calling for the Iranian government to release the hikers, sent a letter to President Obama urging the Administration to step up its efforts to secure the hikers' release, and hosted and attended press conferences and rallies to draw attention to the hikers' cause.

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