After days of concern, journalist Cecilia Sala has finally returned to Italy. The plane carrying her home took off from Tehran a few hours ago, bringing an end to a case that had garnered international attention. Thanks to intense work through diplomatic and intelligence channels, the reporter was released by Iranian authorities and was able to reunite with her family and colleagues.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who personally informed the journalist’s parents, expressed “gratitude to all those who contributed to making Cecilia’s return possible.” Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, speaking on Tg1, emphasized the crucial role of diplomacy and Italian intelligence services in the operation. Reportedly, the director of AISE personally traveled to Iran to ensure her release.
The news of Cecilia Sala’s release was met with immediate reactions from the Italian political scene. Applause erupted in the Senate upon the announcement, while Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini posted on social media: “Cecilia Sala freed, she is on her way to Italy, welcome back!” Unimpresa also commented on the event, calling it “a triumph for freedom and a warning for human rights.” The organization highlighted the reporter’s symbolic value, as she bravely reported on uncomfortable truths, proving how essential it is to defend press freedom.
The journalist’s father expressed great relief, saying he was “proud” of his daughter and praising the Italian government’s efforts for securing her release. Her partner also shared her first words after being freed: “Excited, very happy. She told me: see you soon.”
Cecilia Sala’s arrest on December 19 at Evin prison raised concerns about the state of journalism in Iran and the continuous violations of human rights. While this case represents a victory for Italian diplomacy, it also brings attention to the situation of Iranian women and the repression of fundamental freedoms in the country.
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