10 January
Iran's Foreign Ministry says the country has arrested an American citizen, named Michael White, in the eastern city of Mashhad.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Bahram Qassemi made the announcement on Wednesday.
He said the case is under investigation. But he didn't reveal details, such as when and on what charges White was detained.
The New York Times reports that his mother says the man is a US Navy veteran and has not returned to the US after visiting his Iranian girlfriend. She said White should have boarded a flight in July last year to leave Iran.
The US State Department says in a statement that it is aware of the reports of White's alleged detention, but would not comment further due to privacy concerns.
The incident comes amid rising tensions between the two countries. President Donald Trump's administration is increasing pressure by imposing sanctions on Iran.
Observers say the detention of the US citizen could escalate the confrontation.
NHK
