Dena Karari, a dual US-Iranian citizen detained in Iran since December 2024, has been released, as announced by US President Donald Trump. In a statement on Truth Social, Trump noted that Karari is “now safely outside of Iran, and in good condition,” and characterized her release as a goodwill gesture from the Iranian government.
Karari’s lawyer, Jared Genser, confirmed her safety and that she is en route to the United States. Genser expressed gratitude towards the Trump administration for their efforts in facilitating her release.
Karari’s ordeal began when she traveled to Iran in 2024 to visit family members. However, her plans took a drastic turn when she was later prevented from leaving the country. The situation escalated after US and Israeli military strikes on Iran in 2025, which led Iranian authorities to accuse her of espionage.
Her liberation occurs against the backdrop of escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. The diplomatic climate between Washington and Tehran has been marked by increased strain, amplifying the significance of her release.