Jordan declined a US request to release Bassem Awadallah, a dual Jordanian-American citizen, who has been imprisoned in Jordan for over two years on charges of opposing the regime and inciting sedition.

Awadallah denies the allegations, claiming he was convicted in a sham trial without due process, the Associated Press (AP) reported.

The US State Department made a humanitarian release request in March, which was denied by Jordan earlier this month. John Ashcroft, Awadallah's lawyer, criticized the refusal, saying that the US provides substantial aid to Jordan, according to AP.

Awadallah and Sharif Abdel Rahman Hassan bin Zaid were convicted of sedition and incitement two years ago and sentenced to 15 years in prison.

The US State Department has not confirmed the release request, but it stated that it is monitoring Awadallah's health and following the case closely.

Jordan's Foreign Ministry declined to comment on the matter.