Lawyer: Iran court to rule on U.S. hikers

TEHRAN -- The lawyer for two Americans jailed in Iran on charges of espionage said Sunday the court will announce its verdict within a week, dashing hopes for their immediate release after a final hearing in the case.

Shane Bauer and Josh Fattal, both 29, have been held in Iran's Evin Prison since shortly after their arrest along the border with Iraq on July 31, 2009.

The lawyer, Masoud Shafiei, had hoped that Sunday's final court session would result in their immediate release because it coincided with the anniversary of their arrest and the eve of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, when pardons are traditionally handed down.

"The judge said the court will announce its verdict about my clients within one week," Shafiei told the AP. He said he was still hopeful that, if convicted, they would be sentenced to time already served.

Bauer's fiancee, Sarah Shourd, was arrested with the men but was released last September on $500,000 bail following health issues. She did not return to Iran, but Shafiei said he delivered a defense for her.

The Americans are charged with espionage and illegal entry, both claims that they deny. -- AP