TEHRAN, IRAN. (THECOUNT) — Xiyue Wang, an Iran detained Princeton graduate student will be set free, exchanged for an Iranian scientist held by the U.S., according to Saturday morning reports.
Iran’s foreign minister confirmed the news Saturday.
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The New York Post reported the exchange marks a potential breakthrough between Tehran and Washington after a long history of tensions.
Mohammad Javad Zarif made the announcement on Twitter. The trade involves graduate student Xiyue Wang and scientist Massoud Soleimani.
“Glad that Professor Massoud Soleimani and Mr. Xiyue Wang will be joining their families shortly,” Zarif wrote. “Many thanks to all engaged, particularly the Swiss government.”
In his tweet, Zarif confirmed rumors that had been circulating for days that a deal was in the works to free Wang.
There was no immediate acknowledgment of the trade by the U.S. Lawyers involved in the cases could not be immediately reached. The State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Wang was sentenced to 10 years in prison in Iran for allegedly “infiltrating” the country and sending confidential material abroad. His family and Princeton University strongly denied the claims. Iran has detained dual Iranian nationals and those with Western ties in the past to be used as bargaining chips in negotiations.
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Geo quick facts: Tehran is the capital of Iran, in the north of the country. Its central Golestan Palace complex, with its ornate rooms and marble throne, was the seat of power of the Qajar dynasty. The National Jewelry Museum holds many of the Qajar monarchs’ jewels, while the National Museum of Iran has artifacts dating back to Paleolithic times. The Milad Tower offers panoramic views over the city – wikipedia.