Germany Worried About Trial Of Baha`is In Iran

Germany said there were signs that the detainees, who have been held since spring 2008, would soon be sentenced after a quick trial.

Germany expressed concern on Wednesday over the detention and likely imminent trial of seven members of the Baha'i faith in Iran who are accused of spying for Israel and could be sentenced to death.

"An extension of the current situation or a continuation of the proceedings, in unexplained legal conditions which do not meet international standards, would hurt relations with the international community," said Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman Ulrich Wilhelm in a statement.

Germany said there were signs that the detainees, who have been held since spring 2008, would soon be sentenced after a quick trial, and summoned Iran's Charge d'Affaires for talks with a senior German official.

"(The official) expressed the Chancellor's deep concern about the detention, the looming trial and the lack of legal advice," said Wilhelm.

The European Union has called for the release of the seven and Britain voiced its concern on Monday.

Iran's Shi'ite religious establishment views the Baha'i faith, which originated in Iran 150 years ago, as a heretical offshoot of Islam.

Germany, along with other Western nations, is in dispute with Iran over its nuclear programme. The powers suspect Iran wants to make a nuclear bomb but Tehran says it needs the technology for energy consumption.