Iran Releases Detained US Citizen Dena Karari
US President Donald Trump has announced that Iran released Dena Karari, a dual American-Iranian citizen who had been prevented from leaving the country since December 2024. Trump said she was safely outside Iran and in good condition following her release.
Iran Releases Detained US Citizen
Karari travelled to Iran in 2024 to visit family but was later imprisoned and prohibited from leaving the country. She was eventually released from custody but remained subject to an exit ban.
Her lawyer, Jared Genser, confirmed that Karari was safe and travelling back to the United States. He credited sustained efforts by the Trump administration for securing her freedom.
Trump described the release as a gesture of goodwill by Iran but did not disclose details of the negotiations or whether any conditions were attached to the agreement.
Dena Karari Faced Espionage Charges
Karari reportedly works for an American technology company and operates a charity supporting underprivileged children in Iran.
Iranian authorities charged her with espionage after the United States joined Israel in conducting military strikes against Iran in 2025. No public details have been released about the evidence supporting the charge.
The United States had classified Karari as wrongfully detained and repeatedly called for her release.
Release Comes Amid US-Iran Conflict
The announcement came as American forces launched fresh military strikes against Iranian targets, highlighting the continuing tensions between Washington and Tehran.
Trump thanked Iran for releasing Karari despite the ongoing conflict. However, neither government indicated whether the development could lead to broader diplomatic discussions or affect current military operations.
The United States continues to seek the release of other Americans detained or missing in Iran.
