An Italian journalist has returned to Rome after being detained for weeks in an Iranian prison.
Cecilia Sala, 29, was arrested on December 19, just days after Iranian engineer Mohammad Abedini was apprehended in Milan on allegations of supplying drone technology linked to the deaths of U.S. soldiers.
Reports indicate she was held in solitary confinement at Tehran’s infamous Evin prison.
Upon her arrival at Ciampino Airport in Rome, Sala was greeted by her partner and was welcomed home by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who personally oversaw efforts to secure her release.
Cecilia Sala’s detention sparked outrage across Italy and garnered significant media attention following the announcement of her arrest on December 27.
Initially, Iran stated that Sala was detained for “violation of the Islamic Republic’s laws.” However, U.S. officials suggested a potential connection to Abedini’s arrest, indicating that Sala may have been used as “political leverage.”
The reason for her release remains unclear, but Prime Minister Meloni announced it resulted from “intense work through diplomatic and intelligence channels.”
Meloni’s discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump over the weekend are believed to have included the topic of Sala’s imprisonment.
Outgoing President Joe Biden is also scheduled to visit Rome later this week.
Meloni expressed gratitude to all who helped facilitate Sala’s return. Her partner, journalist Daniele Raineri, shared that Sala was emotional and overjoyed upon their reunion, stating she said, ‘I’ll see you soon.’
Abedini is set to appear in court in Milan on January 15, with recent statements from Tehran downplaying any links between the two cases.
Reports reveal that Italy’s foreign intelligence chief, Giovanni Caravelli, traveled to Tehran to assist in Sala’s return.
Renato Sala, Cecilia’s father, expressed pride in her and commended the government’s efforts, noting the situation felt like a “game of chess” among multiple players.
He also thanked Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, highlighting their long-standing friendship as neighbors.
