Payam Feili, a gay Iranian poet who is seeking asylum in Israel, said his visa to stay there has been extended until October.
Feili announced the visa extension in Jerusalem on Feb. 29, according to the Times of Israel.
Feili said he has not met yet with any Israeli government officials, but is confident he will be allowed to remain in the Jewish state.
“I’m planning my life as if I will stay here long term,” he said at the office of the Israel Project, an advocacy group. “With the help of my friends I can establish a simple life here. I don’t need any help from any government, be it Israeli or not.”
The Iranian government, which is a longtime supporter of Hezbollah and last week announced new financial support for Palestinian terrorists, is vehemently anti-Israel and anti-gay. Iranians can be imprisoned for “homosexual behavior,” and leaders on numerous occasions have vowed to destroy Israel.
Israel is widely considered the most gay-friendly country in the Middle East.
Feili fled Iran in 2014 for Turkey before coming to Israel last year, where his novella, “I Will Grow, I Will Bear Fruit … Figs,” was being adapted as a play in Hebrew.
Feili has written nine books, but none have been published in Iran.
Feili, who has a Star of David tattooed on his neck, said he does not regret his decision to move to Israel.
“From the beginning, I wasn’t looking for a place where I can have an easy life,” he said. “I do understand that this is a liberal country where minorities are supported and endorsed.”
Feili said his family has been mostly supportive of his leaving Iran, but they have come under pressure because of his move to Israel. — jta