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June 22, 2025 – Iran –
Iran is facing serious international criticism after reports emerged that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) abducted the family of a London-based journalist working for Iran International, a Persian-language news channel. The incident, believed to have occurred between June 21–22, is being viewed as a retaliatory act over the outlet’s coverage of the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict.
According to Iran International, the journalist—whose identity is being withheld for safety reasons—received a chilling phone call from her father, who was clearly under duress. “I’ve told you a thousand times to resign,” he said, in what appeared to be a scripted message dictated by Iranian security agents. The call served as a warning, implying that her continued reporting from abroad could have devastating consequences for her family in Iran.
The journalist’s mother, father, and younger brother were reportedly taken by plainclothes agents to an undisclosed location in Tehran. Iran International condemned the act as “an appalling act of hostage-taking,” accusing Iranian authorities of engaging in “transnational repression” aimed at silencing independent journalism beyond its borders.
This is not an isolated case. Iranian authorities have a documented history of threatening or detaining family members of journalists working in exile. Outlets like Iran International and BBC Persian have frequently been targeted, especially when their coverage challenges the official government narrative. Tehran previously labeled Iran International a “terrorist organization,” further intensifying the risks for its staff and affiliates.
Human rights organizations and press freedom groups have decried this latest incident as a blatant violation of international norms. They argue that using family members as leverage to silence foreign-based journalists is a dangerous escalation that threatens global press freedom.
This case highlights the deeply personal risks faced by Iranian journalists working abroad. With their families held hostage to state pressure, many are forced to choose between professional duty and personal safety. Advocacy groups are urging governments and international institutions to condemn Iran’s actions and press for the immediate release of the journalist’s family.
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