Iran says it released Iranian-Canadian academic

TEHRAN, Iran (Kurdistan24) – A Canadian-Iranian academic who had been imprisoned in Tehran since June was released on Monday, a state-run news agency reported.

The Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi was quoted by Fars News Agency.

“Homa Hoodfar, the retired professor of Canadian universities, who had been detained in Iran based on some accusations, was released this afternoon for humanitarian reasons including illness,” Qasemi said.

He added Hoodfar had left Iran to Canada through Oman.

Sixty-five-year-old Hoodfar was hospitalized in August since she suffers from a rare neurological disease that causes severe muscle weakness.

The anthropology professor visited Iran for research and to reunite with family but on June 6 she was taken to the notorious Evin Prison in Tehran, Hoodfar’s family said.

‘DABBING IN FEMINISM’

Iranian press said Hoodfar was charged with “a threat against national security for collaborating with some hostile governments.” She was also accused of spreading propaganda against the state.

Iranian press quoted the prosecutor saying Hoodfar was “dabbling in feminism.”

Hoodfar had previously written on sexuality and women in Iran.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a statement that Canadians are relieved that Hoodfar was released.

“The Government of Canada has been actively and constructively engaged at the highest levels in Dr. Hoodfar’s case — since her ordeal began — working for her release and return to Canada,” Trudeau said.

"In the absence of diplomatic representation of its own in Iran, Canada worked closely with others who were instrumental in helping secure Dr. Hoodfar's release — most notably Oman, Italy, and Switzerland,” he continued.

“I would like to extend our sincerest appreciation for their support,” Trudeau added.

The Prime Minister also thanked Iranian authorities who helped with the case.

“I would also like to recognize the cooperation of those Iranian authorities who facilitated her release and repatriation. They understand that cases like these impede more productive relations,” he concluded.

Editing by Karzan Sulaivany