Editorial note

In a report by Channel 24 News (South Africa), the British navy personnel prior to their de-briefing in a UK military base stated that they would not say anything different with regard Iran than what they stated on Iranian network TV. 

Carman said that when he is interviewed by British media at home he would say nothing different to comments he has made in Iran about being well treated by the authorities.

“I would not say anything different to here and I will be completely truthful. I will definitely promote Iran actually, there is a lot of ignorance in the UK about Iran and the people.”

After de-briefing, in conformity with the demands of the British Navy,  they changed their story.

The official statement made by the Captain Chris Air and Lt. Carmon, however, acknowledges that they were not tortured while in capitivity, 
 
“The questions were aggressive and the handling rough, but it was no worse than that”.

Contrast this treatment to that of the Iranian diplomat kidnapped in Iraq, who was tortured by the CIA, as confirmed by photgraphic evidence.

‘No bad feelings toward Iran’ 05/04/2007 14:57 – (SA)

Channel 24 News (South Africa)

Tehran – The British sailors released by Iran expressed happiness and anxiety on Thursday as they prepared for emotional reunions with their families following their return home.

“It’s a mixture of excitement and a bit of nerves actually about coming back to the UK and seeing our families as they have gone through such a traumatic time,” said one of the men, Felix Carman, in new footage broadcast on Iranian television.

“It’s excitement and bit of nerves,” Carman told the television while waiting to board the plane to London.

“I could not sleep last night. I was too excited about thinking about meeting family and friends and seeing everyone again and going home,” said another sailor, who could not be identified.

“It’s a very confused feeling. Excitement and nervousness all at the same time,” he added in the footage, which was shown in the original English on the state broadcaster’s afternoon news bulletin.

Their plane arrived in London on Thursday afternoon and the 15 were being taken for debriefing and to meet their families.

‘Will definitely promote Iran’

Carman said that when he is interviewed by British media at home he would say nothing different to comments he has made in Iran about being well treated by the authorities.

“I would not say anything different to here and I will be completely truthful. I will definitely promote Iran actually, there is a lot of ignorance in the UK about Iran and the people.”

Faye Turney, the sole female captive said: “It’s just a feeling of relief that I am going home to see my daughter and my family.”

“We had had a very pleasant stay under the conditions we were in. Obviously we were not tourists. All the treatment has been fantastic towards us and there is no bad feeling at all towards Iran.”