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Iran says it suspects two foreigners who were arrested as they were interviewing the son of a woman sentenced to death by stoning have links to foreign anti-government groups.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast says the two entered Iran with tourist visas and not journalist visas. In a Tuesday briefing, he also said some "sources" had indicated the detainees are German. German Chancellor Angela Merkel says her country's Foreign Ministry is attempting to get details about the two detainees.

On Monday, Iran reported the two foreigners were arrested while asking questions about Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani. Her stoning sentence on an adultery conviction generated international outrage. Since July, Iranian officials have said her stoning sentence has been stayed.