Two Years Since Detention of Iranian American Journalist Reza Valizadeh
The two-year mark has been reached in the case of Iranian American journalist Reza Valizadeh, who has been detained in Iran since his arrest in 2019. During a visit to his family, Valizadeh was apprehended and sentenced to ten years in prison for "collaborating with a hostile government," as a result of his work with Radio Farda, an independent Farsi-language news service funded by the U.S.
Background on Reza Valizadeh and Radio Farda
- Reza Valizadeh is an Iranian American journalist
- He worked for Radio Farda, an independent Farsi-language news service
- Radio Farda is U.S.-funded
Reza Valizadeh has been a part of Radio Farda for a decade, reporting on Iranian affairs in Farsi. The station is funded by the U.S. government and provides news coverage to Iranians living inside the country.
Attorney's Statement on Valizadeh's Case
His attorney, Ryan Fayhee, expressed concern over his client's situation.
"Reza Valizadeh is a victim of political persecution," said Ryan Fayhee, Valizadeh's attorney.
Fayhee emphasized that Valizadeh's imprisonment is motivated by his work with Radio Farda and not any illegal activities.
International Outcry for Reza Valizadeh's Release
The case of Reza Valizadeh has garnered international attention and calls for his release.
- The U.S. State Department has called for his release
- The European Union has also expressed concern over his detention
The U.S. State Department and the European Union have both voiced their concerns over Valizadeh's imprisonment.
Family's Persistence for Justice
Valizadeh's family has remained steadfast in their pursuit of his freedom.
- His sister, Zohreh Valizadeh, has been leading the fight for his release
- She has called for international pressure on Iran to address the case
Zohreh Valizadeh, Reza Valizadeh's sister, has been leading the campaign to free her brother and has called for global pressure on Iran to address the situation.
</body> </html><small>Source: PBS NewsHour — read the original story there.</small>
