IRFS intends to picket the Iranian embassy

The Institute for Reporters Freedom and Safety (IRFS) intends to hold a picket in front of the Iranian embassy in Azerbaijan on August 6, demanding the release of the Azerbaijani poets, Farid Hussein and Shahriyar Hajizadeh, arrested in Iran.

    According to the IRFS Director Emin Huseynov, Baku mayor's office has been sent a formal notice of the action.

    "On August 7, the trial of the Azeri poets Farid Hussein and Shakhriyar Hajizadeh arrested in Iran on May 2 will be conducted. We intend to draw the attention of international organizations and world public opinion to this trial.

    The demonstration will be attended by 50 journalists, human rights activists and writers," Huseynov said.

     Recall that Farid Hussein and Shahryar Hajizadeh were kidnapped in Tabriz in early May on the way from Tehran. Official statements have not been released by the Iranian side; however, Iranian media reported that the writers were accused of espionage. However, it later became clear that the poets are accused of illegal trespassing, but they arrived in Iran at the invitation of the Iranian’s.

      Official Baku at the highest level rigidly demanded the release of its citizens. However, the Iranian media hint that the writers could go free if the detained pro-Iranian Azerbaijani activists - several journalists and religious leaders are released by Azerbaijan. -03B06-