Franken Demonstrates Continued Support for Hikers in Iran

"U.S. Senate"

03/11/2010

Applauds First Direct Contact Between Imprisoned Hikers And Their Families And Calls For Their Release


WASHINGTON, D.C. [03/11/10] – Today, U.S. Sen. Al Franken (D-Minn.) expressed his relief that captured U.S. hiker Shane Bauer, and his two friends, were finally able to speak directly with their families.

"I can't express how happy I am that Shane Bauer and his friends were able to talk to their families. I've been in close contact with Shane's mother, Cindy, since her son was taken into custody, and I know how much it has pained her not to be able to speak to him,” said Sen. Franken. “I applaud the Iranian government for allowing these phone calls, and I hope it means that the hikers will be able to be home with their families very soon. Josh, Sarah, and Shane have been imprisoned since last summer, and as spring approaches it's time for them to be reunited with their families."

In October Sen. Franken co-sponsored a Senate resolution calling on the Iranian government to allow the hikers to speak with their families and encouraging their release as soon as possible. He has been in close contact with Shane Bauer’s mother, Cindy Hickey of Pine City, since the Americans were captured late last July and has worked closely with the State Department, the Swiss (who represent the U.S.’ diplomatic interests in Iran), and colleagues in the Senate seeking to secure their release.