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International Volleyball Federation Calls For Release Of Iranian Protester


The world’s volleyball governing body has called for the release of British-Iranian citizen Ghoncheh Ghavami, who was arrested in Iran in June for reportedly trying to watch a men’s volleyball game.

The International Federation of Volleyball (FIVB) said in a statement it does not seek to interfere with “laws and cultures of any nation” but added that “this sensitive incident merits particular attention.”

FIVB’s President Ary Graca has said that Ghavami’s release is “the strongest wish” of the body.

Graca has also said that he wrote a letter to Iran’s President Hassan Rohani, calling on him to secure Ghavami’s release.

Ghavami’s lawyer said earlier this month she has been found guilty of spreading propaganda against Iran’s system and sentenced to one year in prison.

But speaking on November 10, judiciary spokesman Mohseni Ejei said no sentence has been issued yet.

Based on reporting by Reuters, FIVB statement

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