Italian Journalist Cecilia Sala Freed from Iranian Detention

Cecilia Sala was detained for 20 days in an isolation cell before her release confirmed by the Italian government.

Cecilia Sala, a 29-year-old Italian journalist, is on her way home after being detained for several weeks while on a reporting assignment in Iran. The Italian government confirmed her release in a statement, announcing that her flight from Tehran had departed on Wednesday morning. Officials expressed gratitude for the intense diplomatic efforts that facilitated her return.

Sala had been arrested on December 19 under unspecified charges related to violations of Iranian laws, although details regarding the nature of these violations remain undisclosed by Iranian authorities. Reports from family sources revealed that during her detention, Sala was held in isolation with minimal comforts, receiving only two blankets and living under constant illumination.

Her partner, Daniele Raineri, expressed immense relief and joy upon receiving the news of her freedom, stating, "I am free," as he prepared to meet her at the airport. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reached out to Sala's parents to inform them of their daughter's safe return home.

This story continues to evolve as more information becomes available. Emma Bubola reports from Rome for the Times.