Family says Iranian-American democracy scholar arrested for 2nd time in 2 years

Family: Iranian-American democracy scholar held

NEW YORK — The family of an Iranian-American scholar says he has been arrested by Iranian authorities for the second time in two years.

A relative says security forces arrested Kian Tajbakhsh late Thursday. The relative was in contact with Tajbakhsh’s wife, who witnessed the arrest.

There was no independent confirmation from Iranian authorities. The relative spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because of concern that public comments could aggravate Tajbakhsh’s situation.

Tajbakhsh spent four months in prison in 2007 on charges of endangering national security. He denied the allegations.

Tehran has seen massive demonstrations following disputed June 12 presidential elections.