Iran Acquits French-German National of Espionage Charges During Wartime

An Iranian court acquitted Lennart Monterlos, a French-German national, of espionage charges related to the recent 12-day war between Iran and Israel. Monterlos, a young cyclist, was arrested in June in the southern city of Bandar Abbas while cycling alone across Iran. The Revolutionary Court found reasonable doubt regarding the espionage allegations and ruled for his acquittal, though the public prosecutor retains the right to appeal the verdict. The Chief Justice of Hormozgan Province emphasized that all espionage cases are handled meticulously under Iranian law, ensuring justice and impartiality despite political tensions. This decision highlights the judiciary's commitment to legal principles and the rule of law amid allegations involving foreign nationals. The acquittal was reported by multiple sources, including Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency and international media.