Clinton calls for Fargo journalist's release

(AP) - U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is calling for the release of an Iranian-American journalist being held prisoner in Iran.

Clinton was asked at a news conference Thursday what the U.S. government was doing to secure the release of freelance journalist Roxana Saberi, 31, who grew up in Fargo, N.D. She has reported for National Public Radio and other media.

Clinton said she was concerned about Saberi, and that the State Department is working through Swiss authorities to request information from Tehran.

They are seeking information on Saberi's well-being, whereabouts and what Clinton described as the charges made in her confinement.

Clinton said the only acceptable outcome was for Saberi's release and return to her family in North Dakota. She said she expects a response from the Iranians and she thanked the Swiss for their help.

Saberi's father, Reza, said in Fargo, N.D., that Clinton's involvement is very good news. He said his lawyer is scheduled to meet with Roxana on Saturday.

"I am optimistic," Reza Saberi told The Associated Press. "They say that it's typical for them (Iranians) to hold people in prison for two or three months, interrogate them, and release them."

Reza, who was born in Iran, said his family has no choice but to wait.

"This case is just one of many, actually. We hope that this movement will continue to help other journalists, not just our daughter," he said.

With the recent developments, he said, "I feel better now. Especially I'm pleased with the overwhelming amount of publicity and support that this issue has gathered all over the world."

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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