PHILADELPHIA—Families of American hikers who crossed the border into Iran are asking Iranian authorities to show compassion.
While on a diplomatic mission to Brazil, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad (ah-muh-DEE’-neh-zhahd) addressed the hikers’ situation Monday, saying a judge will decide their fate. He said he hopes the punishment is not severe.
A statement in response was released to The Associated Press on behalf of the families of Josh Fattal (fah-TAHL’), Shane Bauer and Sarah Shourd. It says, “We don’t understand why this case remains unresolved with no sign of progress. We very much hope the authorities will show compassion, as the president said, and release our loved ones. It’s been too long.”
The hikers have family in California, Colorado, Minnesota and Pennsylvania.
