Bertrand Delanoé, the mayor of Paris, yesterday called for the Iranian authorities to spare the life of Hossein Derakhshan. In a press release, the mayor described Derakhshan as “ friend of France and Paris” and appealed for help to “save this honourable, courageous and dignified life”. Delanoé’s words will add to the growing calls in support of Derakhshan. His girlfriend Sandria Murcia has released a statement encouraging the “global community to help”.

See also: Hossein Derakhshan may face death penalty