NUJ statement on assassination plot of Iran International journalists
Union response to new details of a plan by Iranian authorities to kill UK-based journalists.
The National Union of Journalists has condemned a shocking plot by Iranian Armed Forces to assassinate journalists Fardad Farahzad and Sima Sabet employed by Persian news channel Iran International. Although plans to kill the journalists were uncovered last year, a report published by ITV News this week unveils detail behind the plot and names the presenters.
Last year, Iran International closed its London studio, relocating to Washington DC following contact from the Metropolitan police advising, of credible threats to journalists and their families at the broadcaster.
Sian Jones, NUJ national organiser, said:
“Alarming news of the foiled plan to kill journalists in cold blood serves as a reminder of the ruthless targeting by Iran of Iran International journalists for over a decade. Both these journalists and others at the broadcaster will be shocked at detail of this intended assassination, despite many already living in fear of reprisals over their reporting for years. For too long, the Iranian state has evaded accountability for its systematic targeting of journalists and their families, enjoying impunity with no sign of an end to the fear instilled.
It is clear state actors will not cease in their persecution of journalists unless swift action is taken the United Nations to hold Iran accountable for its actions. There must be an end to the suffering of courageous journalists who continue to report in the face of deplorable threats from Iran.
“The NUJ remains in close contact with our sister union and the International Federation of Journalists, continuing our calls for global pressure on Iran to stop its crime against journalists.”