Journalist Cecilia Sala Reflects on 21 days of Detention in Iran
ROME – After her release from Evin Prison in Iran, journalist Cecilia Sala expressed a mix of joy and confusion as she returned home to Rome. In an emotional interview with Mario Calabresi, director of Chora Media, Sala recounted her unexpected arrest while working on her podcast. She was detained for 21 days, facing daily interrogations and fears for her safety. Despite the risks, Sala had hoped to return to Iran, drawn by the country’s evolving openness to foreign journalists.Her experience highlights the precarious situation for reporters in politically sensitive regions, as she navigated the complexities of her detention and the potential for political leverage involving her case.Cecilia Sala, an Italian journalist recently released from detention in Tehran, shared her harrowing experience of solitary confinement and the emotional toll it took on her. In a heartfelt recount, Sala reflected on the moments that brought her solace, including the sight of the sky and the sound of a bird, which provided a brief escape from the oppressive silence of her cell. Despite the harsh conditions—sleeping on the floor without proper bedding and being denied basic necessities like glasses and writng tools—Sala remained hopeful. Upon her unexpected release, she felt a mix of joy and guilt, particularly for her fellow detainee, Farzaneh, who remained behind. Sala expressed deep gratitude to those who supported her during this challenging ordeal, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.Cecilia Sala,a journalist recently freed from captivity in Iran,expressed her overwhelming joy and gratitude upon returning to Rome. In an emotional Instagram post, she shared a heartfelt moment with her partner, Daniele Raineri, after their reunion. Sala reflected on her 21-day ordeal, stating, “I never thought I would be home today,” while also acknowledging those still unable to experience freedom. Despite her exhaustion, she is eager to return to work and continue sharing stories, emphasizing her resilience and commitment to journalism. Her colleagues celebrated her safe return with applause, marking a poignant moment of relief and hope.Italian journalist Cecilia Sala has returned to Rome after being released from an Iranian prison, where she was held for several weeks amid diplomatic negotiations between Italy and Iran. Sala’s release, which occurred on January 8, 2025, has been linked to the case of an iranian man wanted by the U.S.,raising concerns about her detention being used as a bargaining chip. Upon her arrival at Ciampino Airport, she was greeted by her family, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and othre officials, who praised the collaborative efforts that led to her freedom. As investigations continue regarding the circumstances of her detention, Sala is expected to share her experiences in the coming days, highlighting the challenges faced by journalists in conflict zones.
Q&A: Cecilia Sala Reflects on Her 21-Day Detention in iran
Time.news Editor: Cecilia, thank you for joining us today to discuss your harrowing experience in Iran. After your release from Evin prison, what where the immediate emotions you felt upon returning to Rome?
Cecilia Sala: Thank you for having me. Upon my return, there was a whirlwind of emotions—joy, relief, and confusion. I was ecstatic to be home after 21 days of fear and uncertainty. Though, I also felt a deep sense of guilt for those who remain detained, particularly my fellow inmate, Farzaneh.
Time.news Editor: Your ordeal highlights the ever-precarious situation for journalists in politically sensitive regions. Can you shed light on what led to your unexpected arrest while working on your podcast in Iran?
Cecilia Sala: I went to Iran,hoping to capture the country’s evolving openness to foreign journalists. it was supposed to be a reporting trip, but I quickly found myself in the middle of a complex situation. I faced daily interrogations and threats to my safety, which were both alarming and disorienting. I realized my presence could be exploited for political leverage by authorities, exacerbating the stakes for me as a journalist.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like you encountered meaningful challenges during your detention. Could you describe the conditions you faced in solitary confinement?
Cecilia Sala: Solitary confinement was incredibly taxing both physically and mentally. I was sleeping on a cold floor without proper bedding, and I was denied basic necessities like glasses and writing tools. The silence was deafening, but I found solace in tiny moments—the sight of the sky through my window or the distant sound of a bird was really a breath of fresh air amidst the oppression.
Time.news Editor: It’s heartening to hear you found moments of beauty even under such dire circumstances. You have expressed gratitude towards those who supported you during this ordeal. How important was that support for you?
Cecilia Sala: The support I received was vital. It played a significant role in keeping my spirits up. Knowing that people were advocating for me gave me strength amid hopelessness.I am eternally grateful to everyone who worked tirelessly for my release, and I intend to use my platform to advocate for others still enduring similar fates.
Time.news editor: You mentioned hopes to return to Iran despite your experience. What drives that desire, and what message do you hope to convey to fellow journalists venturing into such challenging environments?
Cecilia Sala: My passion for telling stories is what drives me. Despite the risks, the potential for change and the incredible narratives that come from places like Iran fuel my desire to return. For fellow journalists, my advice is to practice caution. Prioritize your safety while remaining committed to uncovering truths. Always be aware of the political climate and have contingency plans in place.
Time.news Editor: Your resilience is inspiring. Knowing you returned amidst diplomatic negotiations ties your release to important international relations.Do you believe your case highlights the broader implications of detention in such contexts?
Cecilia Sala: Absolutely. My situation was complicated by international politics and negotiations. It raises significant questions about the use of detainees as bargaining chips, which poses risks not just to journalists but to freedom of the press overall.It’s crucial for the industry to push for clearer protections for reporters working in such regions.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for sharing your invaluable insights,Cecilia. Your experiences resonate beyond your personal story and shed light on the vital role of journalism in times of uncertainty.
Cecilia Sala: Thank you for having me. I hope by sharing my story, I can raise awareness and help advance protections for journalists everywhere.