Three Jews imprisoned in Iran over three years ago on charges of spying for Israel have been released; five others remain in prison. Javid Beit Yakov, 42, sentenced to nine years in prison, and Judaism teachers Farzad Kashi, 32, and Shahrokh Paknahad, 24, who received eight-year sentences, were released yesterday. Israel has consistently denied that the men had spied on its behalf. American and Israeli advocates for the prisoners refused to comment on the release, so as not to "rock the boat" regarding prospects for obtaining freedom for the remaining prisoners.
The eight were arrested in early 1999 together with five others; three were found innocent, and two others have been released after serving their sentences. Iranian-born President Moshe Katzav said recently that efforts are being made to find out the fate of 13 other Iranian Jews who have not been heard from since they were arrested while trying to escape the country. Less than 25,000 Jews remain in Iran today, compared to about 100,000 before 1979.
The eight were arrested in early 1999 together with five others; three were found innocent, and two others have been released after serving their sentences. Iranian-born President Moshe Katzav said recently that efforts are being made to find out the fate of 13 other Iranian Jews who have not been heard from since they were arrested while trying to escape the country. Less than 25,000 Jews remain in Iran today, compared to about 100,000 before 1979.