Tehran confirms Italian journalist Cecilia Sala’s arrest for ‘Violation of Islamic laws’
Iran has officially confirmed the arrest of Italian journalist Cecilia Sala, accused of violating the laws of the Islamic Republic.
In a statement reported by the Irna news agency, the General Department of Foreign Media of the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance said:
“The Italian citizen arrived in Iran on 13 December on a journalistic visa and was arrested on the 19th for violating the law of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Her case is under investigation.”
Guaranteed consular access
The Iranian authorities specified that the arrest took place in accordance with the regulations in force and that the Italian Embassy was informed in a timely manner. The journalist was guaranteed the right to consular access and the possibility of contacting her family by telephone.
The position of the Ministry of Culture
The statement goes on to emphasise the Iranian authorities’ approach to foreign journalists:
“The Ministry’s policy has always been to welcome visits and legal activities of foreign journalists, increase the number of foreign media in the country and preserve their legal rights.”
Investigations still ongoing
A file was opened to investigate the alleged violations committed by Cecilia Sala. However, specific details on the accusation have not been disclosed.
“Further details will be provided if the judiciary deems it necessary,” the official note concludes.
International Concerns
The arrest of Cecilia Sala, known for her reports from crisis areas, has caused great concern in the Italian and international media landscape. At the moment, there has been no official statement from the Italian authorities.
