Italian Government Advocates for Release of Journalist Cecilia Sala Detained in Iran
The Italian government is persistently demanding the release of journalist Cecilia Sala, who was arrested in Iran on December 19. Italy’s Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Riccardo Guariglia, met with the Iranian ambassador in Rome to advocate for her release and humane detention conditions. Concurrently, the Iranian ambassador pushed for the expedited release of an Iranian citizen arrested in Milan. Analysts believe Sala’s arrest is retaliation for the detention of Mohammad Abedini. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also met with Sala’s mother to assure her of ongoing efforts for her daughter’s safe return.