An Emory University law student detained in Egypt on spy charges has been released and will reunite with his family in New York, a university spokeswoman said Thursday.
Ilan Grapel, who was born in the U.S. and has dual citizenship with Israel, was arrested June 12 and charged with spying for Israel.
Emory said Grapel traveled to Egypt to work as an intern for St. Andrew’s Refugee Services, a legal aid group that resettles refugees. He was released in exchange for 25 Egyptians held in jails in Israel, Emory spokeswoman Elaine Justice said.
"The Emory University community is grateful for the release of our student, colleague and friend, Ilan Grapel," said Emory University President Jim Wagner said in a statement.
The university worked with Grapel's family, members of Congress and the U.S. Department of State to make sure he was treated well and facilitate his release, Justice said.
Emory Law Interim Dean Robert Schapiro said students and faculty are "overjoyed by his release" and they look forward to his return to campus.
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