U.S. Reporter Is Iranian Prisoner

Roxana Saberi, 31-year-old Iranian-American reporter from North Dekota, will not make her way back to the U.S. for another eight years, according to CNN.

Saberi's lawyer, Abdolsamad Khorramshahi, confirmed the sentence but said that an appeal was already in the works to be launched in 20 days. "I will definitely appeal the verdict within this period," said Khorramshahi.

Saberi has lived in Iran since 2003. She went there to learn more about her cultural heritage and was freelancing for National Public Radio as well as working on a book about Iranian culture.

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton showed specific concern for the case and what it meant for U.S.-Iranian diplomacy. "We are working closely with the Swiss Protecting Presence to obtain details about the court's decision, and to ensure her well-being," said Clinton.

The U.S. has been at odds with the Iranian government about their nuclear program as well as the country's actions and stances in the Middle East. Saberi's sentencing prompted denunciation from the United States.