Senators Urge Action to Free Imprisoned Journalist in Iran

A bipartisan group of senators is urging Secretary of State Marco Rubio to prioritize the release of Reza Valizadeh, an American journalist imprisoned in Iran. The senators warn of Valizadeh’s deteriorating health and potential risks to his life.

In a letter obtained by CBS News, Senators Brian Schatz, Marsha Blackburn, Jacky Rosen, and Dave McCormick called on the Trump administration to employ all diplomatic channels to secure Valizadeh’s release. They emphasized the immediate danger posed to him due to ongoing detention in Evin Prison.

Valizadeh, a 49-year-old U.S.-Iranian dual citizen, has been held since September 2024 following his return to Tehran. His ten-year sentence stems from charges of collaborating with hostile entities, linked to his work with Radio Farda. The U.S. State Department designated him as wrongfully detained in May 2025.

The senators highlighted Valizadeh’s worsening health, noting denial of essential medical care such as an inhaler for his asthma. Despite his appeals for help, conditions inside Evin Prison have shown little improvement.

The call for urgent action follows the release of another American, Kamran Hekmati, who has been unable to leave Iran after a partial sentence served. Similarly, Dena Karari was allowed to return to the U.S. under strict conditions after health issues.

The State Department previously stressed the priority of freeing wrongfully detained Americans. However, officials avoid discussing specific cases to protect diplomatic efforts.

The pressure from U.S. lawmakers coincides with ongoing tensions and diplomatic considerations relating to the U.S.-Iran conflict as the Trump administration reviews strategies during the U.N. General Assembly.

Valizadeh’s lawyer, Ryan Fayhee, insists on swift action, urging the U.S. government to leverage the current diplomatic environment to foster goodwill. The senators criticize Iran’s pattern of targeting journalists and dual nationals for political leverage, advocating for Valizadeh’s freedom as a priority.