The United States is "deeply disappointed and concerned" by reports that the Iranian judiciary has charged Washington Post journalist Jason Rezaian with unspecified charges, and that the judge denied his request to be released on bail, Secretary of State John Kerry said on Sunday.
"We are also distressed by reports that Jason was not allowed access to an attorney, which is a clear violation of Iranآ’s own laws and international norms," Kerry said in a statement released by the State Department. "I am personally dismayed and disturbed at these reports as I have repeatedly raised Jason's case, and the other cases of detained or missing U.S. citizens, directly with Iranian officials." "We share the concerns of Mr. Rezaianآ’s family regarding reports that he is under physical and psychological distress, and is not receiving proper medical care," Kerry said. "The Iranian government continues to deny our repeated requests for Consular Access to Jason by our Protecting Power, the Swiss, so we are unable to check on his condition or ensure adequate legal representation." Rezaian poses no threat to the Iranian government or to Iran's national security, Kerry said.
"We call on the Iranian government to drop any and all charges against Jason and release him immediately so that he can be reunited with his family," Kerry said. "Likewise, we again call for the release of U.S. citizens Amir Hekmati and Saeed Abedini, and ask for the Iranian government's cooperation in locating Robert Levinson, so that all may be returned to their families."