Iran to try three American hikers who crossed border

IRAN said yesterday it would try three Americans jailed since crossing the border from Iraq in July, a step certain to aggravate the US at a time when Tehran is locked in a standoff with the West over its nuclear programme.

Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki did not say when proceedings would begin or specify the charge other than to say the Americans had “suspicious aims.” In November, however, authorities accused the Americans of spying.

There are concerns in the US that Iran could use them as bargaining chips in talks over its nuclear programme or in seeking the return of Iranians they say are missing.