“The plane bringing journalist Cecilia Sala home took off a few minutes ago from Tehran. Thanks to intense work on diplomatic and intelligence channels, our compatriot has been released by the Iranian authorities and is returning to Italy.” With these words, a note from Palazzo Chigi announces the release of the Italian reporter who had been detained in Iran since December 19th in the Evin prison. “The Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, expresses gratitude to all those who contributed to making Cecilia's return possible, allowing her to hug her family and colleagues again. The President personally informed the journalist's parents during a phone call”, the note explains further (THE REACTIONS TO THE LIBERATION).
Waiting room at Ciampino in the afternoon. Father: “Proud of her”
Iran, through the media department of Culture and the Ministry of Islamic Guidance, speaking to ANSA, limited itself to confirming the news of the liberation. While it emerges that the director of the Aise, Giovanni Caravelli, personally went to
Tehran to take Cecilia Sala and then boarded the plane with her that is bringing her home. The plane, belonging to the Prime Minister's Office, will arrive at Ciampino this afternoon around 3.30pm. Meanwhile, the journalist's father made it known: “I will tell Cecilia that I am proud of her and of the ability and composure she had in this affair. During her days of imprisonment I spoke to her three times. In this period I had “The impression of a chess game, but there weren't just two players. At a certain point the board became crowded and this created strong fears in a parent like me, who unfortunately ignores the moves.” Then he added: “Fortunately, Antonio Tajani and I lived for 12 years a stone's throw from each other and our acquaintance transformed into a friendship. The comfort of information, although protected but direct and immediate ,
it undoubtedly helped a lot.” While the reporter's partner said: “I heard her, she said to me: 'See you soon'. She was excited and very happy. I also replied: 'See you in Rome'”.
The Senate Chamber applauds at the news of the release
After the news of Sala's release, the senators all stood up and clapped their hands for a long time while they were in the Chamber. The update was given to them by the president on duty, Mariolina Castellone, and immediately afterwards the standing ovation began.
