Saeed Abedini was released on 16th January as part of a prisoner exchange between the U.S. and Iran that also saw the release of three other Iranian-Americans: Jason Rezaian, Amir Hekmati and Nosratollah Khosravi.

Saeed, an Iranian believer from a Muslim background who also has U.S. citizenship, had been imprisoned since September 2012. He was serving an eight year prison sentence on charges of undermining national security, due to his involvement with house fellowships. During his time in prison, he suffered serious health issues, physical and verbal abuse and received death threats on account of his Christian faith.

Saeed’s wife, Naghmeh, expressed her joy and surprise at the news of his release and thanked the many people around the world who had been interceding for Saeed and his family.

[Middle East Concern]