ITF Welcomes Shahabi Release, But Remains Watchful

8 January 2013: For immediate release

ITF Welcomes Shahabi Release, But Remains Watchful

The ITF has welcomed the provisional five day release of sick Iranian prisoner Reza Shahabi, treasurer of the ITF’s affiliate the Syndicate of Workers of Tehran and Suburbs Bus Company.

Following a three-week protest hunger strike, Shahabi was released yesterday on the grounds of his deteriorating medical condition. His condition had gone downhill since he underwent surgery to his neck and spine. Shahabi has been incarcerated for over two and a half years and it is possible he will be returned to prison after undergoing treatment. On his return home he called off his hunger strike.

“We are delighted that Reza Shahabi can finally get the treatment doctors recommend”, said general secretary David Cockroft. “Charges against him have not been dropped however – so ITF unions globally remain watchful.”

“This is good news for human rights and will be welcomed everywhere – the next step would be for Shahabi together with other trade union prisoners in Iran, to be cleared of wrongdoing” said ITF president Paddy Crumlin

ENDS

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