Jailed Journalists Update: Saberi, Lee, Ling

An Iranian appeals court has agreed to hear the case of jailed American journalist Roxana Saberi next week. Saberi has been on a hunger strike since April 18 when an Iranian court convicted her of spying. Saberi’s father says his daughter is “weak and frail” after being admitted to a prison hospital last Friday.

Less is known about Current TV journalists Laura Ling (pictured) and Euna Lee, who were detained in North Korea on March 17, and will face trial for their unspecified “hostile acts.” A conviction could carry a sentence of up to 10 years.

A Current spokesperson tells TVNewser: “We do not have a comment.”

Robert Mackey who is editor of The Lede blog on NYTimes.com, asks, “Is it that the theocratic leadership in Iran seems easier to talk to, and comprehend, than the Stalinist leadership in North Korea?”

• Related: Broadcasting & Cable’s Marisa Guthrie writes: “Freelance Journos Under Seige.”

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