In a phone call from Iran’s Evin Prison, Iranian-American journalist Reza Valizadeh urged the U.S. government to obtain medical assistance for him and other Americans detained in the notorious facility. Valizadeh, speaking directly from the prison, asked for a reduction in the harsh conditions they face.
Since the U.S. and Israel initiated airstrikes against Iran three months ago, Iran has imposed a near-total internet blackout. This has isolated the American detainees from their advocates. Recently, the regime eased internet restrictions, allowing Valizadeh’s message to get through.
During the two-minute recording, Valizadeh mentioned three other Americans held at Evin Prison. He stated they suffer from various diseases without access to proper medical care. CBS News could not verify the specifics regarding the other detainees.
Valizadeh’s lawyer, Ryan Fayhee, revealed that since an Israeli airstrike on Evin Prison last June, Valizadeh has struggled with persistent coughing and back pain, alongside dental issues. Fayhee emphasized Valizadeh’s resilience in surviving various hardships.
He’s survived an airstrike on the prison… the indignity of being held. As a journalist, he has little to lose in reaching out, communicating his plight to the American public.
The State Department estimates six Americans are detained in Iran. Sources confirmed that negotiations are ongoing, but a separate track will address the hostage situation. A decision was made to prioritize ending the fighting before negotiating the hostages’ return to avoid further risk.
Valizadeh criticized the U.S. government’s decision to release Iranian sailors without demanding the Americans’ release in exchange. He questioned what was received in return, indicating his skepticism towards the diplomatic actions.
Designated “wrongfully detained” by the U.S. in May 2025, Valizadeh’s case is managed by the hostage affairs office. Negotiations with Iran are led by Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, with calls for clearer public acknowledgment of the detained Americans’ plight.
During recent Congressional testimony, Marco Rubio outlined a proposed two-phase agreement with Iran. It aims to cease violence initially, followed by detailed negotiations on nuclear issues.
Valizadeh became a U.S. citizen in 2022 and worked for Radio Farda, part of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. Despite assurances of safety from Iranian authorities, his return to Tehran became a trap, possibly linked to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Detained by IRGC agents, Valizadeh faced intense interrogation in isolation, charged with “collaborating with a hostile government,” a charge used against journalists and activists.
Stephen Capus of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty expressed hope for Valizadeh’s release, highlighting the unjust separation from his family and friends.
Leave a Reply