US State Department: 'Cecilia Sala's arrest a political lever, must be freed immediately'

The US demands from Iran the 'immediate and unconditional release' of all detainees without just cause, including Cecilia Sala. This was stated by a State Department spokesperson to Republic. "Unfortunately, the Iranian regime continues to unjustly detain citizens of many countries, often to use them as political leverage. There is no justification and they should be released immediately," he added, noting that "journalists do a vital job of informing the public, often in dangerous conditions, and must be protected." The United States is "in frequent contact with allies and partners whose citizens are unjustly detained," he pointed out.