Tajani Summons Iranian Ambassador Over Journalist Cecilia Sala’s Detention

ROME: Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced that he has directed the Secretary General of the Italian foreign ministry to summon the Iranian ambassador to Rome. The meeting is set for midday, as efforts intensify to address the detention of Italian journalist Cecilia Sala in Iran.

According to Ansa News Agency, Tajani took to social media to confirm the summons, emphasizing the Italian government’s ongoing commitment to securing Sala’s release. Sala, a freelance correspondent for Il Foglio and a Chora News podcaster, was detained on December 19 for allegedly breaching Islamic law. She is currently held in solitary confinement at Tehran’s Evin prison.

Italy has officially requested that Tehran provide “total guarantees on the condition of detention” for Sala and demanded her “immediate release.” This request was conveyed through a verbal note delivered by the Italian Ambassador to Tehran, Paola Amadei. The diplomatic effort is being led by Tajani, alongside Premier Giorgia Meloni, Justice Minister Carlo Nordio, and Cabinet Undersecretary Alfredo Mantovano, as they seek a swift and favorable resolution to the situation.

The Italian government has been working tirelessly since Sala’s arrest to ensure her rights are respected and to support her family during this challenging time.