Italian Journalist Cecilia Sala Freed from Detention in Iran

Cecilia Sala, an Italian journalist detained in Iran last month, has been released and is on her way back to Rome. The 29-year-old journalist was arrested on December 19, following the detention of Iranian engineer Mohammad Abedini in Milan, who was suspected of supplying drone technology linked to the deaths of US soldiers. Sala had been held in solitary confinement at Tehran’s Evin prison, sparking widespread outrage in Italy.

The Italian government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, announced her release, crediting “intense work through diplomatic and intelligence channels” for securing her freedom. Sala’s partner, Daniele Raineri, shared the emotional news, quoting her saying, “I’ll see you soon.” The journalist’s plane was en route to Rome, where she is expected to land later today.

While the exact reasons for Sala’s release remain unclear, Iranian authorities initially claimed her detention was due to violations of the Islamic Republic’s laws. However, US officials indicated that her arrest might have been connected to Abedini’s case, suggesting she could have been used as “political leverage.” The Italian government has taken a proactive role in her case, with Giovanni Caravelli, head of Italy’s foreign intelligence service, reportedly traveling to Tehran to facilitate her return.

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