Jason Rezaian's Trial for Espionage Begins Behind Closed Doors

The trial of Jason Rezaian, a journalist for the American newspaper Washington Post imprisoned in Iran on espionage charges, began on Tuesday, June 5, behind closed doors, prompting protests from his family. Reuters reported that only his lawyer would be present during the trial, while even family members were not allowed to attend. Ali Rezaian, Jason's brother, expressed that the only reason for holding the trial in secret could be to prevent the public from knowing that there is no evidence against him. He added, 'In the Iranian judicial system, if there is any evidence that can be used against the people, they never hold a trial behind closed doors.' Jason Rezaian, born in Marin County, California, was arrested on July 22 last year along with his wife, Yeganeh Salehi, and another individual whose name was never disclosed. However, Salehi was later released on bail. During this time, Barack Obama, the President of the United States, repeatedly rejected the espionage charges against Rezaian and called for his release, emphasizing that the U.S. government would not rest until this journalist is freed. Last month, the Washington Post reported, citing Rezaian's defense attorney, that he is accused of espionage through collecting confidential documents related to the domestic and foreign policies of the Islamic Republic and handing these documents over to 'hostile governments.' The newspaper also requested that one of its journalists be allowed to attend the trial of Jason Rezaian, but the Iranian judiciary rejected this request. Meanwhile, Rezaian's family has expressed hope that at least his wife and mother will be allowed to attend the trial. Ali Rezaian stated that his brother has lost 18 kilograms during his detention.