Reports: Iason Athanasiadis freed in Iran
I’ve been hesitant to post anything since there have been a few false alarms in the past two weeks, but it does truly appear that my friend and Nieman colleague Iason Athanasiadis has been released from Iranian custody. CPJ has issued a statement on his release, which I imagine is as good a confirmation as we can expect until we have pictures of Iason reunited with his family; Greek and Iranian government officials have both confirmed the release.
I think I can speak on behalf of the Nieman Foundation in thanking everyone who played a part in advancing the cause of his release and in welcoming Iason back to freedom.
(CPJ does note that there are still around 20 journalists detained in Iran.)
Joshua Benton | July 6, 2009 | 10:11 a.m.
