Klobuchar, Franken Statement on Release of U.S. Hikers Jailed in Iran

Statement

U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken today made the following statements regarding the release of two U.S. hikers, Shane Bauer and Josh Fattal, who have been jailed in Iran on espionage charges for two years. Shane Bauer is a former Minnesotan.

"I am relieved that Shane and Josh have survived this nightmare and are returning home to their families. Iran's initial arrest of the three young hikers and continued detention and conviction of Shane and Josh was unwarranted, and the conflicting reports from Iranian officials regarding the men's status only added to the heartbreak and emotional stress for their loved ones," Klobuchar said. "I recently met with Shane's mother in Pine City, MN, and as a mother myself I can only imagine how long and hard these two years have been for her and the rest of the families. I am overjoyed that they will finally be reunited."

"I'm very relieved that Shane and Josh's ordeal is over,"Franken said. "I'm thrilled that they are being reunited with their families, who have suffered so much and who have been so strong over the last two years. I look forward to finally meeting Shane the next time I see his mother, Cindy."

Klobuchar and Franken have continually advocated for the hikers' release since they were detained in July of 2009. Both Senators 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 letters to President Obama and other officials 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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