We bring you the latest updates on Cecilia Sala, the Italian journalist detained in Iran since December 19.
Details of Arrest and Detention
Cecilia Sala was arrested in Tehran on December 19 while preparing for an interview.
She is currently held in Evin Prison, known for housing dissidents and foreign nationals.
Sala remains in solitary confinement, and no formal charges have been issued.
The first consular visit by Italian Ambassador Paola Amedei occurred after eight days in isolation. During the visit, Sala received food and clothing.
According to Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, her health condition is good.
Communication from Cecilia
Sala has made two brief phone calls to her parents.
In her first call, she confirmed her arrest and assured her family she had not been harmed.
In a later call, she mentioned celebrating Christmas with rice and chicken and receiving two cigarettes.
Italian Government’s Efforts
The Italian government, led by the Foreign Ministry, embassy in Tehran, and consulate, is working diligently to secure Sala’s release.
Minister Tajani has reiterated that Italy stands firmly with Cecilia and her family.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is closely monitoring the case alongside Tajani and Undersecretary Alfredo Mantovano.
Authorities have requested discretion to ensure successful diplomatic negotiations.
Possible Connection to Another Arrest
Speculation surrounds a potential link between Sala’s arrest and that of Mohammad Abedini Najafabadi, a Swiss-Iranian citizen arrested in Milan on December 16 on U.S. terrorism charges.
However, Minister Tajani has dismissed such assumptions as premature and unrelated.
Calls for Cecilia’s Release
Organizations like Reporters Without Borders (RSF) have condemned the arrest as “arbitrary” and called for her immediate release.
Political figures and journalists worldwide have expressed solidarity with Cecilia and her family.
About Cecilia Sala
Cecilia Sala, 29, is a journalist for Il Foglio and Chora Media.
She is the creator of the acclaimed podcast “Stories”.
A graduate of Bocconi University in Milan, Sala pursued journalism after studying economics.
Her reporting spans conflict zones, including Ukraine and Afghanistan.
We will continue to monitor and share updates on this developing situation.
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