The Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that the seven Estonian tourists kidnapped in Lebanon in March were freed in the early hours of July 14.

All seven men are in good health and have been transported to the French Embassy in Beirut.

The Foreign Ministry is arranging for the freed Estonian citizens to be brought home as soon as possible. "The main thing now is for our seven fellow countrymen to get home to their families and loved ones as quickly as possible," Paet said.

The Lebanese news website Naharnet reported that the Estonians were released on the condition that no soldiers or police are present. However, CNN reported that Lebanese army sources said that authorities arrested three people in connection with the kidnapping.

It is not yet clear whether a ransom was paid.

The release allegedly took place in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, the same place where the Estonians were abducted on March 23.

In April, the obscure organization allegedly behind the abduction, the Movement of Rebirth and Reform, demanded a ransom.

Ott Tammik

