Italian journalist Cecilia Sala, 29, has been released from Iranian detention and is returning to Italy, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced. The release, following "intensive diplomatic efforts," came after Sala's detention for three days, beginning December 19, 2024.
Sala, a reporter for Il Foglio, was arrested shortly after Iranian businessman Mohammad Abedini was detained in Milan on US charges related to alleged drone parts for a Jordan attack. Italian media reports suggest that President-elect Donald Trump played a role in brokering Sala's release, a claim denied by Meloni's office.
This latest incident highlights Iran's history of detaining foreign journalists, often making false espionage accusations. The release follows previous cases, such as the 2016 release of Washington Post journalist Jason Rezaian, and the 2023 release of five Americans, mediated by a prisoner exchange and the release of frozen Iranian assets.
Sala's detention, alongside other arrests of foreign nationals, has raised concerns about potential leverage Iran may be seeking from such actions. While Iran denies these accusations, human rights groups have voiced their concerns. In a separate statement, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei described Abedini's detention as hostage-taking.
The return of Sala marks a significant development in international relations and underscores the ongoing challenges facing journalists operating in Iran. Her return, facilitated by diplomatic efforts, is a testament to the importance of international cooperation in these situations. Sala is expected to be greeted by Meloni upon arrival in Rome.
