Story perspectives

U.S.-Iran Journalist's Health Deteriorates Amid Wrongful Detention

1/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Abdolreza "Reza" Valizadeh, a dual U.S.-Iranian journalist, was arrested in Iran on September 22, 2024 by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps amid a crackdown on protests after returning home.
The U.S. State Department designated Valizadeh as "wrongfully detained" in May 2025.
Valizadeh's health has deteriorated in Evin Prison due to poor conditions and lack of medical care.
U.S. President Donald Trump advocates for the return of wrongfully detained Americans.

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Story summary

Abdolreza "Reza" Valizadeh, a dual U.S.-Iranian journalist, was arrested in Iran on September 22, 2024 by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps amid a crackdown on protests after returning home.
The U.S. State Department designated Valizadeh as "wrongfully detained" in May 2025.
Valizadeh's health has deteriorated in Evin Prison due to poor conditions and lack of medical care.
U.S. President Donald Trump advocates for the return of wrongfully detained Americans.