Iran releases 15 British navy crew

The Times of London published an article this morning stating that Iran is returning the British hostages as an Easter present to the British people.

Iran has pardoned and released the 15 British military personnel seized in the Gulf 12 days ago. At the conclusion of a rambling two-hour speech, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said the move was an Easter present to the British people.

After decorating members of the Iranian coast guard that captured the seven Royal Navy sailors and eight Royal Marines on March 23, Mr Ahmadinejad said he was prepared to forgive Britain for trespassing into Iranian territorial waters.

"This pardon is a gift to the British people," the President said, observing that it falls between the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad last weekend and the celebration of Easter.