Gulf Nation Sends Plane To Iran Amid Efforts To Free American Hikers

MUSCAT, Oman (AP) -- An official with Oman's foreign ministry says the Gulf nation has sent a plane to Tehran amid efforts toward a bail-for-freedom deal for two Americans jailed for spying.

Oman played a similar role in bringing a third member of the group, Sarah Shourd, from Iran last year after payment of $500,000 bail. [see related story...]

The Omani official gave no further details Wednesday on the possible release of Shane Bauer and Josh Fattal, who were detained along the Iran-Iraq border in July 2009.

The Omani official spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivities of negotiations.

Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad says the Americans could be released within days on a total of $1 million bail. But Iran's judiciary says the plan is still being reviewed. [see related story video…]

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