Episode 341 • • 2:03:53 - 2:12:21
341: Selling the Monet
Iran Hikers Release, Oman Mediation and Bribes
Two American hikers, Shane Bauer and Josh Fattal, were released from an Iranian prison after 781 days following a $1 million bail payment mediated by Oman. The hikers, who were arrested near the Iraq-Iran border, are widely suspected of being CIA assets rather than recreational tourists. The "bail" is characterized as a straightforward bribe, and the role of Oman is seen as a diplomatic maneuver to raise its international profile.