Iranian hostage freed - Coinciidence?

[Gromit]

An Iranian diplomat kidnapped in Iraq in February has been freed, Iran's official news agency, Irna, says.

Iranian officials blamed the US for the abduction, saying Jalal Sharafi was taken by an Iraqi army unit that worked closely with the Americans.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/middle_east/6 522113.stm

Do you think this is connected to the 15 UK captives. Is this part of a deal? Or just coincidence?

[Booldawg]

Murders, bombings and kidnappings seem to be part and parcel in the war torn middle east. More like an every occurance than a planned event - but then again, who knows? There is subterfuge and trickery on both sides.

[maxximus]

highly likely, but who can really say for certain with all the propaganda and misinformation we are fed. you might find this article to be of interest. http://www.globalpolicy.org/empire/interventio n/iran/general/2007/0403botchraid.htm

[Gromit]

Thanks Maximus, very informative link.

[Gromit]

Subsequently, from the Daily Telegraph;

"Britain got its sailors and marines back.

There may have been more to this agreement. An Iranian diplomat kidnapped in Baghdad two months ago - apparently by Iraqi security forces - was freed and returned to Teheran on Tuesday.

America abruptly announced that Iran could have consular access to five of its officials who were arrested in northern Iraq in February.'

bNo coincidence by the sounds of it.