The World - News from Oct. 13, 1988

President Reagan said that Iran could prove it wanted better relations with the United States--just “turn the hostages loose.” The President made the comment after being asked about a Washington Post report that Iran has adopted a more conciliatory policy toward the West. The report said that Iranian officials had told West German officials recently that “the time of hostage taking is over.” It also said that officials in Bonn are convinced that Iran is willing to pursue better relations with the United States. However, White House spokesman Marlin Fitzwater said there is no U.S. policy change concerning the hostages.