Iran’s Foreign Ministry has confirmed the release of Iranian national Mohammad Abedini, who had been arrested in Italy at the request of the United States. His return to Tehran follows what officials call a “misunderstanding,” as reported by Mizan, the official news outlet of Iran’s judiciary.
Abedini’s detention was connected to accusations by the United States alleging his involvement in a January 2024 drone strike on a U.S. military outpost in Jordan that resulted in the deaths of three American soldiers. Following discussions between Iranian and Italian intelligence authorities, Abedini was released. Esmaeil Baghaei, the Foreign Ministry spokesman, expressed appreciation for his return and reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of its citizens abroad.
Originally arrested on December 16, Abedini faced extradition to the U.S., where he was charged alongside another Iranian for allegedly supplying drone technology used against American forces. His planned appearance in a Milan court to seek house arrest was precluded when Italy’s Justice Ministry sought to annul his arrest, deeming it incompatible with Italian law.
Coinciding with Abedini’s detention, Italian journalist Cecilia Sala was apprehended in Tehran under allegations of violating Islamic Republic laws while on a standard journalist visa. She was subsequently released and returned to Italy, where she received a warm welcome from Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani.
Iranian officials have dismissed speculation linking Sala’s arrest to Abedini’s case, emphasizing a long-standing narrative by Western countries alleging that some Iranian detainees are utilized as leverage in diplomatic negotiations. Furthermore, Tehran has condemned what it describes as concerted efforts by the West, particularly the U.S., to target its citizens, relating this to the broader framework of unilateral sanctions imposed after former President Trump’s withdrawal from the nuclear agreement in 2018.
The release of Abedini occurs against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions, particularly following the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Iranian military officials have issued warnings to both the U.S. and Israel regarding potential strikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. Recently, Iranian armed forces conducted extensive military exercises, demonstrating capabilities aimed at protecting vital nuclear sites.
The geopolitical landscape remains tense as Iranian leadership showcases military readiness, while also grappling with its nuclear program and international relations shaped by the forthcoming U.S. presidential administration.
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