Zakka’s release comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and the U.S. after President Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from Tehran’s nuclear deal with world powers. Zakka is one of several prisoners with either dual nationality or links to the West held in Iran. Lebanese officials have for years asked for his release, and it was not clear why Iran decided to act now. The White House said it was “thankful” for Zakka’s release but wants to see other Americans who are detained there released as well. Esmaili stressed that Zakka’s release was within “the frame of the law.”“We reviewed the (Lebanese) president’s request through the Supreme National Security Council,” Esmaili said.

Source: Pakistan Today June 11, 2019 17:37 UTC