ABC Blocked from Trump Press Conference After Journalist Clash
September 18, 2025
Mohammad Ala’ Sawalhi Killed While Covering Gaza’s Forced Displacement
September 18, 2025
September 18, 2025 – Azerbaijan –
Shamshad Agha (also known as Shamshad Aghayev), editor-in-chief of the independent Azerbaijani website argument.az, has been hospitalized in a penitentiary medical facility in Azerbaijan after his arrest in the “Meydan TV” case.
Agha was arrested on February 5, 2025, as part of the “Meydan TV case,” in which multiple journalists and media figures have been detained. He faces charges under Article 206.3.2 of the Azerbaijani Criminal Code, alleging smuggling committed by a group following preliminary conspiracy.
Relatives report that Agha suffers from a stomach ulcer condition, which has significantly worsened during his time in pre-trial detention. His health problems prompted the hospitalization, but there are concerns about the quality and adequacy of the medical care he is receiving.
The “Meydan TV case” currently involves at least twelve individuals in custody. In August 2025, authorities added seven additional charges against the defendants, which the arrested media figures reject, stating the charges are reprisals for their journalistic work. Human rights and press freedom organizations involved in the case have recognized those detained as political prisoners.
This latest development highlights broader patterns of government pressure on independent media in Azerbaijan. The extension of pre-trial detentions for multiple defendants in the “Meydan TV” case has raised alarm among rights groups demanding due process, health protections, and transparency in legal proceedings.
Shamshad Agha’s hospitalization underscores the risks journalists face when detained: detainees in politically sensitive cases often report poor medical attention, deteriorating health, and delays in receiving necessary treatment. Critics argue that such conditions may amount to ill-treatment under international human rights norms.
The case continues to draw international attention. Press freedom advocates are calling on Azerbaijani authorities to ensure fair legal process, provide adequate medical care, and release those whose detention is based largely on their work as journalists.
Reference –
https://www.eng.kavkaz-uzel.eu/articles/68666
