A Swiss national, previously detained in Iran on espionage charges, has reportedly died in custody, according to Iranian state media.
The individual was housed with another inmate at a prison in Semnan, eastern Iran, when he allegedly “committed suicide” on Thursday, as reported by Iranian news sources. Despite attempts by prison officials to revive him, their efforts were unsuccessful.
Further details concerning the identity of the deceased have not been disclosed.
In a statement, a local official stated, “This morning, a Swiss citizen committed suicide in Semnan prison,” highlighting that the man had been apprehended by Iranian security forces for espionage, with the case still under investigation.
In recent years, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have detained numerous dual nationals and foreigners, primarily on charges of espionage and security violations. Iran’s relationship with Switzerland is notable, as Switzerland acts as a crucial intermediary, representing U.S. interests in the region and facilitating communications between Washington and Tehran.