Monday, 14 December 2009, 11:03 EST
Iran to try 3 Americans who crossed Iraqi border

Missing American hiker Sarah Shourd is seen here in this undated photo released by freethehikers.org, August 20, 2009. REUTERS

The Associated Press

Mottaki said at a news conference that the Americans had "suspicious aims."

Iran's foreign minister says three Americans jailed since crossing the border from Iraq in July will go on trial.

Manouchehr Mottaki did not say when proceedings would begin or specify the charge, but in November authorities accused the Americans of spying. The foreign minister's comments were the first clear indication that Iran plans to put them on trial.

Relatives and the U.S government say the three were innocent tourists on an adventure hike in northern Iraq and accidentally crossed into Iran, where they were arrested on July 31.

Mottaki said at a news conference Monday that the Americans had "suspicious aims."