Iran human rights body asks for explanation of Yazdi arrest

Text of report by the Iranian news agency IRNA

Tehran, 22nd December: The Islamic Human Rights Commission said on Sunday that it was studying the arrest [on 18th December] of Ebrahim Yazdi [leader of the Freedom Movement of Iran], the recent events in Qom [leading to attacks on the house of Ayatollah Montazeri] and the moves [attacks] on cinemas in Esfahan and Amol.

The commission said in a report: In response to requests by representatives of the media and various other individuals, the commission will be studying these cases so that no illegal acts take place, and that if there have been violations, those responsible are treated according to the law and in a civilized manner.

The report said that in order to inform public opinion and help the implementation of the law, the Islamic Human Rights Commission has asked relevant officials at the judiciary to announce the reasons for the arrest of Dr Ebrahim Yazdi.

The report said: Such events are natural in a dynamic and developing society, but the most important thing is that citizens and those responsible for the execution of the law should be sensitive to the need for the implementation of the law.

On Thursday [18th December] an informed official at the judiciary said Ebrahim Yazdi was called to court and arrested on the basis of legal norms and procedure.

Source: IRNA news agency, Tehran, in Persian 0712 gmt 22 Dec 97

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