On Sunday, January 17th, Matthew Trevithick returned to the United States after being imprisoned in Iran for 40 days. Trevithick, 30, is a Boston University graduate from the class of 2008 and a Hingham native with a degree in International Relations. He had been studying Farsi in an intensive program associated with Tehran University when he was arrested. The reason for his imprisonment has not yet been released.

Secretary of State John Kerry was heavily involved in the negotiation for the release of Trevithick along with four others. It quickly became evident to officials that he was unjustly imprisoned. His freedom came shortly after the release of a Marine veteran, Washington Post reporter, and ten US Navy sailors, all of which occurred in the same week that the Iran Nuclear Deal was finalized. Although the Deal has frustrated many OPEC countries since their competition for oil production has increased dramatically, American relations with Iran seem to be improving. It will take many years to see if the benefits outweigh the losses.

For many weeks, Trevithick’s family members were unsure whether or not the outcome of the negotiations would be positive. Only his nuclear family was given information on his situation, and they were told to keep it secret for his safety. His family is immensely relieved that he has been released safely after over a month of delicate negotiations. He left Logan airport on Sunday night in the light snow with his arm around his mother.