Italian Government Calls for Immediate Release and Dignified Treatment of Journalist Cecilia Sala

ROME: The Italian government has urgently called for the release of Cecilia Sala, an Italian journalist detained in Iran for alleged violations of Islamic law. The appeal followed a high-level summit chaired by Premier Giorgia Meloni, emphasizing the need for her dignified treatment while in custody.

According to Ansa News Agency, the Italian government’s statement reaffirmed its dedication to securing Sala’s immediate release. It underscored the necessity for her treatment in a manner that upholds human dignity. The statement also highlighted the government’s ongoing dialogue with Iranian authorities to resolve the situation swiftly.

The Italian government’s statement also referenced Mohammad Abedini, a Swiss-Iranian businessman apprehended at Milan airport on a U.S. terrorism charge shortly before Sala’s arrest. Chigi assured that Abedini is receiving fair treatment in accordance with international laws and conventions, reflecting Italy’s commitment to equal treatment for all detainees.

In response to parliamentary concerns, Cabinet Secretary Alfredo Mantovano, who oversees national security, has expressed his readiness to address the intelligence service oversight body, COPASIR, on the details of the case. This meeting is set for Friday, following requests from opposition members for transparency and accountability regarding the government’s actions.

“The government remains committed to ensuring that all individuals in detention are treated with respect and in line with legal standards,” the statement concluded, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation and adherence to human rights norms.