Ali, perhaps America’s most famous convert to Islam, gave a copy of his letter to the families of Josh Fattal and Shane Bauer. The families released the text to the Associated Press last Wednesday.
Ali, 69 and suffering damage from his years in the ring, recalled his two previous visits to Tehran and pleaded for “mercy and compassion” for the two hikers, who are currently undergoing a slow-motion trial for illegal entry into Iran and espionage.
The boxer’s wife, Lonnie Ali, told the AP from their Arizona home that her husband was willing to travel to Iran again, if his health permits, to pursue freedom for the pair. Parkinson’s Disease has limited his speech and movement.
Ali wrote a letter last year to Khamenehi, Lonnie Ali said. That was sent shortly before the third hiker, Sarah Shourd was freed last September, though Lonnie Ali said there was no way of knowing if that letter had any impact.
The second letter was sent in February. Ali has received no response to either letter, his wife said. The two letters were sent via the Iranian mission to the United Nations in New York.
Lonnie Ali said her husband was asked to intervene by the late John Arum, son of boxing promoter Bob Arum. John Arum, also a hiker, died on Storm King Mountain in Washington state shortly after he asked Ali to help and before Shourd was released, she said.
Lonnie Ali said Alex Fattal, Josh Fattal’s brother, had visited the Alis in Arizona last Tuesday.
“We are deeply grateful to Mr. Ali and the many other people around the world who know that Shane and Josh absolutely do not deserve to be in prison,” the families said in a statement. “We hope and pray that Iran hears this appeal and responds with compassion. It is time for this nightmare to end.”
Here is the text of Ali’s letter:
Your Excellency and dear brother,
As Salaam Aliakum.
Inshallah, I pray this letter finds you in good health.
I write you today to ask your mercy for the two men, Josh Fattal and Shane Bauer, who are currently being held by Iranian authorities. I am humbled by the compassion you gave to their young female friend Sarah Shourd, by allowing her to return to her family. I ask the same mercy and compassion be given to them as well.
My last visit to Tehran was some years ago but I remember it as if it were yesterday. The people were so kind and beautiful. Most Americans don’t know how warm and welcoming the Iranian people can be. One day, I hope I am able to return to Tehran to stand, greet and be among my Iranian brothers and sisters once again. Perhaps that day will come soon.
Please show the world the compassion I know you have in your heart. Allah is most merciful. I remain your brother in Islam, always.
With much love and respect,
Muhammad Ali
Ali was the world heavyweight champion between 1964 and 1979. He fought 61 fights, winning 56 of them, 37 by knockouts.