Official statements from Iranian authorities or credible news reports

Italian Journalist Cecilia Sala, 29, Arrested in Iran on December 19 and Held in Evin Prison

Dec 27, 2024, 12:33 PM

Italian journalist Cecilia Sala, 29, was arrested by Iranian authorities in Tehran on December 19 while conducting journalistic activities with a valid visa. She is being held in solitary confinement at Evin Prison, known for housing political prisoners. The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed her detention and stated that officials, including Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, are closely monitoring the situation and are in contact with Iranian authorities to clarify her legal status and secure her release. Italian Ambassador Paola Amadei has visited Sala in prison to verify her condition. Sala reportedly told her family, "I'm fine but hurry up." Political figures, including Elly Schlein, have expressed concern and urged the government to take all necessary steps to bring Sala home. The hashtag #FreeCecilia is being used to call for her release. Alessia Piperno, an Italian who was previously detained in Evin Prison, sent a message of support to Sala and her family.