Italian journalist Cecilia Sala is being held in Tehran’s Evin prison after being detained by Iranian authorities on December 19. The Italian Foreign Ministry said it had worked with the Iranian government to clarify her detention and ensure her safety.
Ambassador Paola Amadei visited Sala in prison on Friday, confirming that she was receiving regular visits and phone calls from family members. However, the Italian daily Il Foglio reported that Sala is being held without charge and facing threats against journalists.
The editor of Il Foglio, Claudio Cerasa, called for Sala’s release, stating that “journalism is not a crime.” The newspaper had initially decided to report on Sala’s detention due to diplomatic assurances from the Italian government. Sala was in Iran on a regular visa to report on the country and its human rights issues.
The Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto stated that the entire government is working to secure Sala’s release, but emphasized that diplomatic efforts are needed for her safe return.
Sala has been in contact with her parents and colleagues, who asked Chora Media not to publicly disclose her detention until she was released. However, in light of public pressure and outrage, the media outlet has now confirmed her detention. CNN has reached out to Iran’s foreign ministry for comment.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2024/12/27/middleeast/italian-journalist-cecilia-sala-arrested-iran-intl/index.html