TEHRAN -- The ballyhoo made over the arrest of 13 spies indicates that Israel, U.S., France and some other countries are determined to politicize the issue, for they have resorted to a disinformation campaign against Iran before the spies are tried, said a Majlis MP. The best measure to ward off enemy's poisonous attacks is fair trial of the Jews, Majlis MP from Khozestan Framand Hashemi-Zadeh told the TEHRAN TIMES, adding, if the detainees are found guilty by the court, they will be given a just sentence, which will foil the propaganda of the Zionists and some Western countries.

Thirteen spies who happened to be Jews were arrested in March in Shiraz. Israel, France, U.S. and some other countries have been calling on Iran to release the spies without any trial. Iran considers such moves as an interference in its internal affairs. We should take proper actions through the Majlis and Foreign Ministry to counter the charges,'' he added. Although Israel is trying its utmost to tarnish Iran's image in the world, Iran's policies and President Khatami's detente diplomacy have hindered Israel from achieving its sinister goals,'' he said.

Another MP from Ilam, Hamid Karimi said to the TEHRAN TIMES, The U.S. and the Zionists have been trying to harm the interests of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Our nation, like the past, should be vigilant to thwart the plots of the enemy.'' In spite of the fact that we are an advocate of dialogue among civilizations, we will not tolerate the interference of any foreign power in our internal affairs,'' he stated.

Espionage is considered as a crime in any country, he said, adding, Iran also considers espionage as a crime, but it has nothing to do with the minorities and their freedom.'' He said a public court could try the 13 Jews to show that the trial has nothing to do with the religious affiliation of the spies.