New York Jeweler Released from Iranian Prison, But Banned from Leaving Country

New York jeweler released from Iran prison but barred from leaving. Family seeks return amid health concerns and political tensions.

Editorial Desk

September 12, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — New York, United States — A New York-based Iranian American jeweler has been freed from an Iranian prison but remains prohibited from exiting the country, according to his family and U.S. officials.

Kamran Hekmati, 62, was released from Evin prison in Tehran on September 5 after serving roughly half of a two-year sentence. His family said he is still in critical health due to bladder cancer and requires ongoing medical care, raising concerns about his well-being in the facility.

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The family accused Iran of showing no concern for Hekmati’s medical needs, citing similar cases where Americans are detained to gain political leverage. While U.S. Rep. Thomas Suozzi called for Hekmati’s release, the State Department also urged Iran to free other detained Americans, including journalist Reza Valizadeh, who has faced harsh conditions and limited access to medical care while imprisoned.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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