Red Rock On Air

Nobel Peace Prize laureate Archibishop Desmond Tutu issued a statement Tuesday calling for the release of Minnesota native Shane Bauer and two other Americans who are being detained in Iran.

Statement from Tutu:

I appeal to the Iranian authorities to find it in their hearts to act in accordance with the principles of justice and compassion and release Shane Bauer, Sarah Shourd and Josh Fattal without delay.

These three young people have been detained in Iran for over six months and it is difficult to escape the conclusion that they continue to be held because they are Americans and not for any legal reason.  I urge the Iranian authorities not to deny them their freedom in order to express their discontent with the United States.  Nations have a right to disagree but their citizens should not be made to pay the price of their differences.

It is time for Shane, Sarah and Josh to return to the families, whose anguish and pain are mounting with each day that passes.  These are good people, whose lives are filled with good deeds and great promise. Please allow them to go free and continue on the path of peace, harmony and understanding that they have chosen to pursue.