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Italy Summons Iran's Ambassador, Demands Release of Journalist Cecilia Sala Held in Evin Prison

Jan 2, 2025, 02:05 PM

Italy has summoned Iran's ambassador in Rome to demand the immediate release of Italian journalist Cecilia Sala, who has been detained in Tehran since December 19. Sala, who was reporting in Iran with a regular journalist visa, is being held in solitary confinement in Tehran's notorious Evin Prison under reportedly harsh conditions, including sleeping on the floor and without access to her glasses. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced the ambassador's summons, stating that the government is working tirelessly to bring Sala home and demanding that all her rights be respected. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas also called for Sala's immediate release, stating, 'Journalism is not a crime.' Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni held a government summit at Palazzo Chigi and met with Sala's mother, Elisabetta Vernoni, to address the situation. The Iranian ambassador in Rome claimed that Sala has been provided with all necessary amenities and called for the release of Iranian citizen Mohammad Abedini, detained in Italy over allegations of exporting sensitive technology for weapon use. In response, Iran has summoned Italy's ambassador in Tehran.