CPJ alarmed by new prison recording from Reza Valizadeh in Iran’s Evin Prison

The Committee to Protect Journalists is deeply concerned by jailed Iranian-American journalist Reza Valizadeh’s latest harrowing report of physical pressure, psychological abuse, and the denial of critical medical care inside Tehran’s Evin Prison.

A recently released voice memo, obtained and aired by CBS News, offers a rare firsthand account of conditions inside the prison. In the recording, Valizadeh said detainees are “deprived from real medical services” and subjected to “physical pressure and mental torture.” His remarks come amid longstanding concerns about his deteriorating health. 

“Journalist Reza Valizadeh’s recording from prison is a powerful cry for help and a stark reminder of the dangers faced by journalists wrongfully detained in Iran. His account raises urgent concerns about his health and treatment in custody,” said CPJ Regional Director Sara Qudah. “We urge U.S officials to use every available diplomatic channel to secure his release and welfare, and call on Iranian authorities to immediately investigate allegations of abuse and release him without delay.”  

Valizadeh, a former Radio Farda journalist and dual Iranian-American citizen, has been imprisoned in Iran since September 2024 on charges linked to his journalistic work. He was later sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Following his temporary transfer from Evin Prison after a June 2025 military strikes by Israel on the facility, CPJ documented concerns from family members regarding unsanitary detention conditions, polluted water, contaminated food, and the lack of proper medical treatment, all of which reportedly worsened Valizadeh’s chronic asthma and other health issues.

The United States must intensify diplomatic efforts to secure Valizadeh’s freedom, while pressing the Iranian government for transparency and accountability regarding his reports of mistreatment in detention and the need to access urgent medical care.