An appeal to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, for the release of the British sailors and marines captured by the Iranian authorities on 23 March was issued on 3 April by the Right Rev. Tom Burns, Roman Catholic Bishop of the Armed Forces in England and Wales. “The marines have sought to act with dignity and integrity. They are obviously trying to do their best to diffuse this difficult situation – writes Bishop Burns in his statement -. Hence, all of us appreciate the Iranian government’s resolve that they should be well treated and properly looked after. This attitude is therefore the correct response that would be expected of any internationally reputable nation”. “This approach – Burns continues – is also in accordance with both the Islamic and Christian faith. For, there is the chance to express a unity of purpose on both sides, whereby everyone seeks justice and forgiveness where that is appropriate”. “Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, in the name of his nation and in the name of Islam, has the unique opportunity to earn the world’s respect for its Islamic laws and values. As one religious leader to another, I therefore ask him to show generosity by allowing one Navy to return the marines of another to their mother-ship”.
