Iran claims case of jailed Tipperary man may be used to 'smear' regime

The Iranian Embassy in Ireland has warned that "there might be third-party adverse interests in publicising and politicising the case" of a Tipperary man who has been in jail in the country since October.

Bernard Phelan was arrested while working for a tourism company in Mashhad, Iran's second largest city, which is near the border with Afghanistan.

His family has said that Mr Phelan has gone on hunger strike, and expressed serious concern for his health.

In a statement today, the Iranian Embassy warned against efforts "trying to derail the case from its judicial processes".

"There might also be certain political interests in abusing this case in the context of misinformation against Iran with a view to smear the image of the country", it said.

Speaking to RTÉ recently, Caroline Massé Phelan, Brendan's sister, said that her brother "just can't stand it anymore", and has also surrendered medication he needs for a heart problem, and a condition which affects his bones.

"The situation is just so bad for him in the prison, he just doesn't see any sign of getting out of there," she said.

Bernard Phelan was arrested for allegedly taking photographs of police officers and a mosque which had been burned.

He denies all charges against him.