Imprisoned for Telling the Truth: Reza Valizadeh’s Ordeal Spotlighted by His Brother

September 03, 2025 – Iran/USA – 

Iranian-American journalist Reza Valizadeh has now endured over a year of harsh imprisonment in Iran solely for practicing journalism—from psychological torment to relentless interrogations—his ordeal laid bare through a poignant Q&A with his brother.

Initially held in Tehran’s notorious Evin Prison, Reza was later transferred to the overcrowded and medically inadequate Fashafouyeh Prison, where unsanitary conditions, scarce clean water, and contaminated food severely deteriorated his health. On August 9, 2025, he was reportedly sent back to Evin.

A catalyst for his health’s sharp decline was an Israeli strike on Evin Prison, which targeted the prison clinic while Reza was present, unleashing chaos—smoke, debris, and injured inmates.

Reza’s journalistic journey spans two decades. He began in Iran in 2007, criticizing President Ahmadinejad’s security apparatus—a move that landed him in legal trouble. After fleeing during the 2009 Green Movement, he received asylum in France and continued his work with outlets like Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and Persian RFI.

His arrest after returning to Iran—an emotionally charged decision influenced by deceptive reassurances about safety—was orchestrated through a manipulative ruse by an IRGC-linked contact. Upon arrival, Reza was arrested, endured solitary confinement, and faced intense interrogation. He ultimately received a 10-year sentence on ludicrous charges of “collaboration with a hostile government,” with no fair trial or legal representation afforded.

Although the U.S. State Department has publicly condemned his imprisonment as arbitrary, and media organizations, including CPJ, continue to advocate for his release, these efforts have yielded no real progress. Reza’s family has also sought assistance via the Swiss Embassy and U.S. Iran desk—so far, to no avail.

Reza’s story is a sobering illustration of the Iranian regime’s cynical persecution of journalists. His suffering underscores a vital truth: in Iran, practicing journalism can become a dangerous—and life-altering—act of courage.

Reference – 

Imprisoned for telling the truth: A Q&A with Iranian-American journalist Reza Valizadeh’s brother