510 King Street, Suite 350

Courthouse Square
Alexandria, VA 22314
P 703.566.3037

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuesday, October 25, 2016

CONTACT: Ms. Cara Di Silvio

+1.703.566.3037

Statement on the Continued Unlawful Detention of Nizar Zakka

Unconditional Release On Humanitarian Grounds Urged
The following statement was issued by Mr. Nizar Zakkas attorney in
the United States, Mr. Jason I. Poblete:
Nizar is extremely weak and getting sicker. We continue to request immediate
medical attention and urge the United States, other responsible nations, as well as
international organizations, to do more to secure his unconditional release on
humanitarian grounds.
Among other injustices, Nizar has been psychologically tortured and subjected
to inhumane and degrading treatment. He has not been allowed to visit with his
Iranian attorney except once before the proceedings against him. No consular or
third-party visits have been allowed. Medical care, essentially, has been nonexistent.
Nizar was told by Iranian officials in April 2016 that as much as $2 billion
would be requested for his release from captivity. This would confirm that Nizar was
lured, kidnapped, and is being held hostage by Iran. Just last month, Nizar was then
told he was spared the death penalty but would remain in captivity for ten years and
until $4 million is paid to Iran.
This is a grave breach of, among others, the Geneva Conventions against
hostage-taking. Iran is using Nizar, other Americans, and dual-nationals as political
chattel to exact concessions from the U.S. and other powers. On behalf of Nizar, we
request that all be done by the U.S. and other governments to secure his unconditional
release from captivity on humanitarian grounds.
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ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA + CORAL GABLES, FLORIDA