U.S. hikers held in Iran allowed to call home, families say (CNN)

(CNN) -- Three U.S. hikers who were detained in Iran have spoken by phone with their relatives for the first time since authorities jailed them more than seven months ago, the hikers' families said Wednesday. Authorities in Iran allowed Shane Bauer, Sarah Shourd and Josh Fattal to call their relatives on Tuesday, their families said.

 "It was a tremendous relief to hear their voices at last and know that Shane, Sarah and Josh are keeping well and staying strong," the families said in a statement.

"We believe the calls are a positive signal that their long detention may soon be over after these many months of anguish and uncertainty."

The three were detained after crossing into Iran while hiking.

The relatives said they "appeal to the Iranian authorities to show compassion and allow our families to be reunited in joy and happiness as well."

The three Americans were detained on July 31 when, according to their families, they accidentally strayed across an unmarked border into Iran while on a hiking trip. They are being held on espionage charges.