For Immediate Release
June 30, 2000…On the eve of the sentencing of the 13 Iranian Jews accused of espionage on behalf of Israel, last minute diplomatic efforts have intensified to avert a miscarriage of justice. The Canadian Embassy in Tehran has sent a representative to Shiraz to be on hand when the sentences are announced tomorrow at 11 a.m. local time and B’nai Brith Canada continues to consult with the Government, human rights advocates and legal experts to determine the best course of action to follow.
It is clear that international concerns over this case are being echoed even within Iran. A group of Iranian MP’s announced plans to form an investigation committee to examine the judicial proceedings in order to clear up some "ambiguities". It is these ambiguities that could cost some of the defendants their liberty, or even their lives.
“We are appalled that the announcement of the sentence has been deliberately timed to coincide with the Jewish Sabbath”, stated Frank Dimant, Executive Vice President of B’nai Brith Canada. “This move not only demonstrates a blatant disregard for the sanctity of Jewish traditions, especially for the defendants who are all observant Jews, but it is also a cynical attempt to mute the Jewish community’s response.”
B’nai Brith Canada has called on all synagogues throughout Canada to say prayers for the welfare of the captives, and has asked the community to hold itself in readiness should a strong response be necessary.
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