The recent prisoner exchange deal between Sweden and Iran did not include Ahmadreza Djalal, a Swedish-Iranian dual national who remains incarcerated in Iran. Despite protests for his release, Djalal accused Sweden’s prime minister of leaving him behind in a call from Evin prison where he has been held since 2016.
The exchange on Saturday saw Sweden release a former Iranian official while Iran freed two Swedes, but Djalal, an emergency medicine doctor, was not included. He was sentenced to death in 2022 on spying charges and deemed ineligible for a swap by Iran’s judiciary.
In a recorded conversation with his wife, Djalal expressed disappointment at being left out and described his dire situation in prison. Swedish officials, including Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom, vowed to continue efforts to secure his release despite Iran’s refusal to acknowledge his Swedish citizenship.
Despite the setback, Sweden remains committed to bringing Djalal home and ensuring his safety. The plight of Djalal and his family has garnered sympathy and support from Swedish authorities.
For updates on the situation, stay tuned to Reuters for the latest developments.