News reports over the intervening months had accused them of varying crimes, including espionage. But Foreign Minister Ali-Akbar Salehi said the men were freed because the Islamic Republic is based on humanism, Islamic mercy and good neighborly relations. He said nothing about any crimes committed by the pair. Azerbaijani has said it sent Iran five notes demanding to know why the men were being detained and insisting on Azerbaijan’s right to a consular visit with the men. Azerbaijan has said its notes were never answered.