WASHINGTON - The United States has sent strong messages to Iran urging the release of three American hikers who were detained there recently, White House National Security Adviser James Jones said yesterday.
“We have sent strong messages that we would like these three young people released as soon as possible, and also others that they have in their custody as well,’’ Jones told NBC’s “Meet the Press.’’
The Iranian government acknowledged yesterday that it had the three Americans in custody, he said.
“These are innocent people. We want their families reunited, and we would like to have it done as quickly as possible,’’ Jones said.
Iran detained the three Americans over a week ago after they strayed across the border from Iraq, according to an Iraqi Kurdish official.
Jones did not elaborate on others in Iranian custody. But in a separate interview, Susan Rice, the US ambassador to the United Nations, mentioned Robert Levinson, an former FBI agent who disappeared in March 2007 during a business trip to Iran’s Kish Island.
“This [the hikers’ case] is obviously of significant concern to us, as are the cases of other Americans who continue to be held in Iran. Mr. Robert Levinson, a number - a couple of dual nationals who we’re quite concerned about,’’ Rice told CNN’s “State of the Union.’’
“So we will continue to press for the swift and safe release of all Americans,’’ Rice said.
