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GENEVA — A group of United Nations special rapporteurs has raised alarm over escalating threats against journalists affiliated with London-based Iran International, citing a pattern of transnational repression and intimidation.
In a statement released Thursday, the experts detailed “credible threats” to the safety of 45 journalists and staff members, along with 315 of their relatives across seven countries, including the UK, USA, Canada, Türkiye, and several European nations. Reported incidents include stalking, vehicle break-ins, death threats, and surveillance of family members, some of whom were allegedly interrogated and threatened with arrest or violence.
The UN experts described the campaign as an effort to silence critical reporting and undermine press freedom. “Such intimidation violates both freedom of expression and media freedom and may have a chilling effect on other journalists,” the statement read.
Iran International, which reports on sensitive issues such as Iran’s domestic politics, human rights, and foreign policy, has faced repeated threats from Iranian authorities, including alleged assassination plots and physical assaults. Tehran has labeled the outlet a terrorist organization, a move widely criticized by press freedom advocates.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) continues to rank Iran among the world’s most repressive countries for journalists. The recent extension of espionage laws to cover media activity has further heightened concerns, particularly in the wake of Iran’s June conflict with Israel, which RSF says has left journalists in an increasingly vulnerable position.
Calls for international protection and accountability are growing as civic space in Iran remains severely restricted.
Excerpts from jurist.org article by Lilian Trickey | U. Oxford Faculty of Law, GB
