Devendra Kumar
Pouria Zeraati, a journalist for Iran International, was stabbed outside his home in London on Friday, leaving him with injuries to his leg. The Metropolitan Police responded promptly to the incident at 2:49 pm, treating Zeraati before taking him to the hospital. Fortunately, his condition is not believed to be life-threatening. This cowardly attack comes after the Iranian regime’s 2022 plot to kill two of Zeraati’s colleagues, television anchors Sima Sabet and Fardad Farahzad.
The Iranian government has a long history of targeting and intimidating journalists who criticize or report on the regime. Michelle Stanistreet, general secretary of the National Union of Journalists, described the attack as “deeply shocking” and expressed concerns that it may be connected to the escalating intimidation and harassment by Iran against journalists. Stanistreet emphasized the need to ensure the safety of journalists and called for an investigation into the incident.
The Metropolitan Police are currently investigating the attack and have not made any arrests. Anyone with information that could assist officers is encouraged to contact them. The National Union of Journalists has also offered its support to Zeraati and his family, working to ensure his safety and well-being. The incident has raised concerns among journalists in London and around the world about the safety of those who report on the Iranian regime.
Zeraati’s colleagues and supporters are rallying around him, calling for an end to the intimidation and violence against journalists. The National Union of Journalists has pledged to continue working to stamp out the harassment and targeting of journalists and to support those who are affected. The organization is committed to ensuring the safety of journalists and upholding their right to report on the Iranian regime without fear of reprisal.
The attack on Zeraati is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by journalists who report on the Iranian regime. It is essential that the international community takes notice and takes action to ensure the safety and well-being of these brave individuals. The National Union of Journalists will continue to work tirelessly to support Zeraati and other journalists who are targeted by the regime, and to ensure that those responsible for this cowardly attack are brought to justice.