Australian man Robert Pether released on Bail in Iraq amid fears for his health
An Australian man jailed in Iraq for four years has been released on bail. Robert Pether, 49, and his Egyptian colleague, Khaled Zaghloul, were sentenced in 2021 to five years in jail and fined US$12 million ($18 million) on fraud charges. Both maintain their innocence. The charges stemmed from allegations the company they worked for defrauded the Iraqi government during a project to build the country's central bank's new headquarters. SBS News has been told his bail conditions are likely to restrict him from leaving Iraq. Pether and Zaghloul were held for five months before going to trial, where a judge deliberated for 15 minutes before convicting them.
Pether wrote in a letter last year that he was worried he would "not survive this ordeal much longer" amid growing concerns over his health. Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the Australian government welcomed his release. "I know the personal toll Mr Pether's detention has taken on him and his family and hope this news brings a measure of relief after years of distress," she said. "While Mr Pether remains subject to legal proceedings in Iraq, this is a positive development and follows persistent Australian government advocacy over many years."
Irish media also reported news of Pether's release on Friday. He and his wife, Desree, had been living in Ireland for several years. Tánaiste (Irish deputy prime minister) and foreign affairs minister Simon Harris said in a statement he had been informed of Pether's release. "This is very welcome news in what has been a long and distressing saga for Robert's wife, three children and his wider family and friends," Harris said, adding he had spoken to Pether's wife. "We remain concerned about Robert's health and outstanding charges, but I am hopeful now of a positive resolution in this case." SBS News has contacted Desree Pether for comment.
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