92000E2984

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2984/00

by Antonio Tajani (PPE-DE) to the Commission

(20 September 2000)

Subject: The trial of the Iranian Jews found guilty of espionage

As the court hearing the appeal of the ten Iranian Jews found guilty two months ago of spying for Israel and the United States is due to pass sentence on 20 September 2000, what action does the Commission intend to take to ensure that the standards of justice and human rights recognised by the international community are upheld?

How will the Commission, in line with the measures it has already taken, seek to ensure that the Iranian authorities' actions comply with the principles that govern the conduct of civil nations and that no considerations other than the dictates of justice prevail?

Answer given by Mr Patten on behalf of the Commission

(12 October 2000)

The Commission follows with deep concern the issue of human rights in Iran. Questions regarding human rights, including the trial in Shiraz, feature prominently in the comprehensive dialogue between the Union and Iran.

On the specific situation of the 13 Iranian Jews tried in Shiraz on charges of espionage, a number of demarches have been made by the European Union as well as by individual Member States since the arrests in April 1999. In these endeavours, the Union has stressed the importance of a free and fair trial, its disappointment at the lack of sufficient defence representation and its concern that the trial was not open to observers. Following the verdict on 1 July 2000, the Union urged the court of appeal to reduce or retract the sentences given to ten of the defendants. The decision by the appeal court on 21 September 2000, to reduce the sentences was a welcome step. We remain concerned, however, about the lack of transparency in the judicial proceedings and regret that the sentences were not reduced more drastically or simply set aside. The Commission remains mindful of the fate of those convicted and will continue to follow the matter closely.

The political situation in Iran remains ambiguous. However, positive developments at the recent Parliamentary election and Iran's growing sensitivity to international concerns, open new possibilities to develop a constructive dialogue on human rights issues with the Iranian Government. The Commission will seize every opportunity to support this positive evolution.