Iran stoning case lawyer seeking asylum in Norway

Oslo, Norway: The lawyer defending a woman sentenced to death by stoning in Iran says he has applied for asylum in Norway, but hopes Iranian authorities will allow him eventually to return to his practice.

Mohammad Mostafaei told reporters on Sunday he chose to flee to Norway after obtaining a Norwegian travel visa. He also cited Norway's prominent human rights profile.

The 31-year-old says he fled to Turkey last week after learning Iranian officials intended to arrest him. He flew to Norway Saturday after being detained briefly in Turkey over a passport issue.

He says he hopes international pressure will force Tehran to let him return to his practice.

Mostafaei maintained a blog that sparked a worldwide campaign to free his client, Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani, who was convicted of adultery.