The New York Times said its Tehran correspondent has been unable to work for the past four months because Iran has inexplicably revoked his press credentials (ANGELA WEISS)

Washington (AFP) – The New York Times said Monday Iran has revoked the credentials of its Tehran correspondent, leaving him unable to work for the past four months.

The newspaper said it went public with news on its reporter Thomas Erdbrink amid speculation on social media and with his absence notable in recent weeks as tensions have risen between Washington and Tehran.

The Times said Iran’s Foreign Ministry had offered assurances that Erdbrink’s credentials would be restored but have offered no explanation for the delay or for why it was revoked.

Erdbrink, a Dutch citizen, has been reporting from Iran for the Times since 2012 and previously worked in the country for The Washington Post. 

According to the Times, his Iranian wife, Newsha Tavakolian, a photographer, has also been denied permission to work, The Times said. 

The newspaper pointed out that it is not unusual for countries to suspend journalists and that Erdbrink had his credentials pulled once before.

In 2014, Iranian authorities arrested Washington Post reporter Jason Rezaian and held him for nearly two years on accusations of espionage before releasing him.

Disclaimer: Validity of the above story is for 7 Days from original date of publishing. Source: AFP.