TEHRAN – An Iranian-American held in Tehran has reportedly been sentenced to 18 years in prison for “collaboration with a hostile government”.

In an interview with Vice News aired late on Monday, Shahini acknowledged supporting the protests that followed Iran’s 2009 presidential election, but denied being involved in any sort of spying.

Shahini said he was not sure if he would file an appeal, but said, “I do a hunger strike - until either they free me or I die.”

SP/PA