A RESEARCH student at a North-East university goes back before a court tomorrow for his alleged involvement in a terrorist bombing which killed 90 people.

The arrest of former Iranian diplomat Hade Soleimanpour, in Durham last Thursday, has sparked a political row with the Islamic republic.

He was arrested at his flat in Gilesgate following a formal request by authorities in Argentina, who are seeking his extradition.

Mr Soleimanpour is facing a charge of conspiracy to murder, relating to a bombing in Buenos Aires, Argentina, nine years ago, when the main Jewish community centre in the country was destroyed, killing 90 and injuring 200.

At the time Mr Soleimanpour was the Iranian ambassador to Argentina.

He subsequently began a degree at Durham and was arrested at his flat in Kepier Court by Durham Police on behalf of Scotland Yard's anti-terrorist unit.

Mr Soleimanpour was taken to London and appeared before Bow Street magistrates the following day.

The court heard that Argentinian authorities allege Mr Soleimanpour was involved in planning and commissioning the bombing, while he was also said to have provided information about the location and on the timing of the attack.

Mr Soleimanpour's lawyer, Michel Massih, said: "He has always publicly and strenuously denied these allegations. There is a political vendetta."

He said that Mr Soleimanpour had enrolled at Durham University as "an ordinary student" and is not in receipt of a scholarship from the Iranian government.

Mr Soleimanpour was remanded in custody for a week and will appear before magistrates today.

Iran has called on Britain to apologise for the arrest and free him, saying the arrest was politically motivated.