Iranian-American Journalist Seeks Help from U.S. While Detained in Iran

In a recorded phone call from Iran’s Evin Prison, Iranian-American journalist Reza Valizadeh appealed to the U.S. government for medical assistance for himself and other Americans detained in the prison. Valizadeh expressed that even if addressing their health issues was too demanding, the U.S. government could have asked Iranian authorities to reduce some of the physical and mental pressure they face.

The recorded message surfaced after Iran relaxed its tight internet restrictions imposed during recent conflicts involving the U.S. and Israel. Valizadeh mentioned three other Americans detained with him at Evin Prison, stating they suffer from various health problems without access to adequate medical services. CBS News could not verify details about the other Americans.

Valizadeh’s lawyer, Ryan Fayhee, revealed that since a controversial Israeli airstrike on Evin Prison, Valizadeh has struggled with coughing, back pain, and dental issues. Fayhee noted Valizadeh’s determination to communicate with the American public, emphasizing the challenges he faces both as a journalist and a prisoner.

The State Department estimates that six Americans are detained in Iran. However, sources indicate their release is not part of the current truce negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. Discussions aim to end fighting and initiate nuclear talks, addressing the detainee issue separately to avoid complicating the fragile negotiations.

Valizadeh criticized the U.S. for releasing Iranian sailors without securing the return of American prisoners. On May 4, the U.S. seized the motor vessel Touska, detaining its 22 crew members for violating a blockade, before returning them to Iran as a gesture of goodwill in ongoing diplomatic efforts.

The State Department formally designated Valizadeh and another American, Kamran Hekmati, as “wrongfully detained” in May 2025. Despite this, Iran diplomacy is handled by White House figures rather than State Department officials. Fayhee called for acknowledgment from U.S. negotiators about the detained Americans’ plight.

Senator Marco Rubio discussed a two-phase agreement under consideration, involving a ceasefire and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, followed by detailed nuclear program negotiations lasting 30 to 90 days.

Reza Valizadeh’s Detention in Iran

Valizadeh, a U.S. citizen since 2022, worked for Radio Farda, a U.S.-funded broadcaster. Believing it was safe to return to Tehran, he was allegedly set up by Iranian authorities. After refusing to cooperate against Radio Farda, he was detained by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, leading to weeks of isolation and interrogation in Evin Prison. His charges include “collaborating with a hostile government,” a common accusation against journalists.

Stephen Capus of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty expressed hope for Valizadeh’s release, emphasizing the hardship of his extended separation from family and friends. The U.S. government’s acknowledgment of Valizadeh’s wrongful detention has been welcomed by colleagues and advocates.