'An affirmation of the power of love, kindness, courage and human resilience' - Lara Marlowe, author of Love in a Time of War

Bernard Phelan was working for an Iranian tour operator when he was arrested on false charges of spying on 3rd October 2022, becoming a political hostage.

He shared "Satan's block" in Mashhad prison with political prisoners and drug traffickers - and condemned inmates awaiting execution.

He was released from prison in May 2023 after being held hostage for seven months.

Bernard Phelan grew up in Stillorgan, Dublin and lives in Paris with his husband.