Navy veteran released from Iranian custody after a year

Michael White, a U.S.Navy veteran held captive in Iran for more than a year, has been released. 

White traveled to Iran in July of 2018. In January of 2019, the Iranian government confirmed that they had arrested the American citizen and sentenced him to 13 years in prison.

In March, White, whose family says he has underlying medical conditions, was placed in Swiss custody and admitted to a hospital with coronavirus-related symptoms. He remained in the custody of the Swiss until his release to the U.S. was secured.

President Trump touted the release moments after it was announced.

"We expect him to be home with his family in America very soon," Trump said over two tweets. "I will never stop working to secure the release of all Americans held hostage overseas! Thank you Switzerland for your great assistance."

At the outset of the coronavirus pandemic, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called for Iran to release Americans being wrongfully detained and cautioned that the U.S. would hold them accountable for any citizens who died from the coronavirus while in their custody.

White's release was preceded by the recent return of an Iranian scientist was returned to his nation of origin following a period of detainment by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement. 

U.S. officials are denying the scientist's return was part of a prisoner exchange for the Navy vet. A State Department spokesperson said that the United States has been attempting to deport the Iranian scientist since late 2019. 

The State Department has not yet commented on White's release.