Harper tells Iran world will judge if it executes ‘spy’

Prime Minister Stephen Harper has warned Iran that the world will “cast judgment” if “terrible” things are done to a Canadian who has been sentenced to death. Harper made the comments a day after Canadian officials issued an urgent appeal to Iran, fearing he could be executed “imminently.”

Hamid Ghassemi-shall went to Iran in 2008 to visit his ailing mother but was sentenced to death for alleged crimes against the Iranian state.

“Canadian government officials have been working at all levels for some time obviously to urge for a judicial process and clemency in this case,” Harper said. “And I know, of course, we are working with our international partners. I think our view is known. The government of Iran should note that the whole world will be watching and they will cast judgment if terrible and inappropriate things are done in this case.”