Iran-Pakistan-Ejeie
Information Minister Gholam-Hossein Mohseni Ejeie here Sunday ruled out rumors that Iranian nationals taken captive by bandits in Pakistan are dead.

"God willing all those hostages are safe. The reports that some of them have been martyred are not confirmed," Ejeie told reporters on the sidelines of ceremonies marking the first departure anniversary of former Experts Assembly Head Ayatollah Ali Meshkini.

Ejeie said consultations and efforts are underway to secure release of the hostages.

"We hope the hostages will soon be released," he said.