The Iranian opposition claims that 69 people were killed when protests following June's presidential election were crushed. The regime says only 26 people died.

The Iranian authorities have admitted that about 4000 people were arrested and detained after President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's re-election. A spokesperson says about 3700 prisoners were released a couple of days later.

The remaining 300 are still being held and include activists, journalists, lawyers and pro-reform politicians. The opposition says the real number of people in custody is much higher.

A French teacher who is accused of espionage and inciting unrest has been released, but has not yet been sentenced. The 24-year-old Frenchwoman is one of dozens of people facing trial for crimes including espionage, which carries the death penalty in Iran.

Earlier in court, she admitted taking part in the anti-government demonstrations. It is not known when the verdict in her case will be handed down.

photo: Iranian protests (EPA)