Australian Engineer Robert Pether Released on Bail in Iraq After Four Years

Australian engineer Robert Pether has been released on bail after nearly four years of detention in an Iraqi prison, where he was held following a contract dispute related to the Central Bank of Iraq's headquarters construction. Pether was sentenced in 2021 to five years in prison and fined millions on fraud charges he denies, with the United Nations deeming his detention arbitrary and highlighting allegations of mistreatment including psychological abuse. Australian officials, including Foreign Minister Penny Wong and the Prime Minister, have consistently advocated for his release, raising the case with Iraqi authorities over 200 times. Despite his release on bail, Pether remains subject to legal proceedings and is currently unable to leave Iraq, with concerns about his deteriorating health and urgent medical needs. His release is seen as a positive development by Australian and Irish officials, though his family continues to campaign for his full freedom and return home. The case underscores ongoing diplomatic efforts and human rights concerns surrounding foreign nationals detained abroad under disputed circumstances.