Washington  - The US magazine Newsweek Saturday expressed relief over the release of reporter Maziar Bahari, who was let out of prison on bail after four months in detention.

"We are relieved that Newsweek journalist Maziar Bahari is home with his family today. We would like to thank all of those who supported Maziar through this long and uncertain period," the magazine said in a statement.

The magazine said it "presumed" that humanitarian decisions played a role in the decision to release him. Bahari, 42, and his wife are expecting their first child October 26, and the mother "has experienced serious health complications," the magazine said.

The Iranian-Canadian journalist was released on bail amounting to almost 300,000 dollars, Iranian state television confirmed.

Bahari was arrested last June while covering protest demonstrations following the disputed June 12 presidential election.

According to informed sources in Iran, Bahari was expected to stay with his mother in Tehran until it was clarified whether he would be allowed to leave the country or wait for further justice proceedings. (dpa)