Premier Giorgia Meloni is closely monitoring the case of Italian journalist Cecilia Sala, held in Tehran’s notorious Evin Prison since 19 December. According to Palazzo Chigi, Meloni is actively collaborating with Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Cabinet Secretary Alfredo Mantovano to bring Sala home.
The government emphasised the delicate nature of negotiations, urging the media to exercise discretion. “In agreement with her parents, all possible dialogues are being pursued with the necessary caution,” a statement read.
Efforts to free journalist Sala
Sala, a correspondent for Il Foglio and podcaster for Chora Media, is being held in a solitary cell. Foreign Minister Tajani confirmed that she is in good health and has spoken twice with her parents. On Friday, Sala received a consular visit from the Italian ambassador in Tehran, who brought assurances and began arrangements for necessities.
Addressing the Senate, Tajani stated, “The government has been working tirelessly since Sala’s arrest to bring her back to Italy. We are coordinating efforts between the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, our embassy in Tehran, and the consulate.”
The journalist’s father, Renato Sala, expressed gratitude for the widespread attention and solidarity. However, he declined further comment, reflecting the government’s plea for confidentiality to ensure Sala’s safe return.
Possible retaliation linked to arms trafficker’s arrest
The arrest of Sala may be linked to the detention of a 38-year-old Swiss-Iranian man in Milan on 16 December. The individual, Mohammad Abedini Najafabadi, is accused of breaching US sanctions by allegedly exporting electronic devices with potential links to terrorism.
Najafabadi was arrested on a US warrant after arriving from Istanbul. His lawyer, Alfredo De Francesco, dismissed the charges as exaggerated. “My client rejects the accusations and is unable to comprehend the reasons for his arrest,” De Francesco said.
Najafabadi remains in Milan’s Opera prison under a precautionary measure issued by the Court of Appeal. Observers speculate Sala’s arrest in Tehran could be a retaliatory act tied to Najafabadi’s detention in Italy.
The Italian government continues to focus on diplomacy, balancing the sensitive dynamics between the cases. Premier Meloni and Foreign Minister Tajani remain committed to securing Sala’s safe return while ensuring her wellbeing during detention.
