Iran: journalists arrested amid protests
The National Union of Journalists has joined the International Federation of Journalists in condemning the arrests of six journalists following protests in Iran.
Protests are taking place across the country, following the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody on 16 September. Several mobile networks have been shut down and restrictions to internet access have been reported across cities. Newspaper journalist Nilofar Hamedi, photographer Yalda Moayeri, editor Masoud Kordpur and his brother are four of those arrested for their coverage of events.
The NUJ is calling on authorities to release the journalists and ensure access to information including through social media is permitted.
Anthony Bellanger, IFJ general secretary, said:
“We urge Iranian authorities not to use the coverage of national protests as an excuse to muzzle the press. Every citizen in Iran has the right to know what is going on. Our colleagues must be released immediately and allowed to report freely. We also call on the authorities to immediately restore the free flow of information on the Iranian territory. “