Released Iraqi shoe thrower still in Syria, says he doesn't know details of travel plans

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
The Canadian Press, 2009

DAMASCUS, Syria - The Iraqi reporter who threw his shoes at former President George W. Bush says he feels comfortable in Syria and that he doesn't know details of his travel plans later on.

Muntadhar al-Zeidi was released from jail on Tuesday, three months early for good behavior, and later flown to Damascus. He says his health is "good and under control."

He was convicted of assault in March. His three-year prison sentence was reduced to one because he had no criminal record before the shoe-throwing incident.

Al-Zeidi became a folk hero in the Arab world and unrepentant for his act, he said after his release that he was tortured during first days in custody.

His adviser said on Thursday that al-Zeidi's travel plans are kept secret because of security concerns.