American Journalist Pleads for Help from Evin Prison in Iran

In a phone call from within Iran’s Evin Prison, Iranian-American journalist Reza Valizadeh called on the U.S. government to provide medical assistance for him and other American detainees held in the prison. Valizadeh expressed a desire for the U.S. to urge Iranian authorities to alleviate some of the physical and mental pressure they face.

The communication from Valizadeh came after Iran relaxed an internet blackout imposed following U.S. and Israeli airstrikes. During a two-minute recording, he noted that he and three other Americans in the prison suffer from various ailments and lack adequate medical care. CBS News could not verify the status of the other Americans mentioned.

Valizadeh’s lawyer, Ryan Fayhee, reported that his client experienced severe health issues after an Israeli airstrike on the prison. Fayhee stressed that Valizadeh endures significant hardship and seeks to communicate with the public to raise awareness of their plight.

Six Americans are currently detained in Iran, according to the State Department. Diplomatic negotiations aim to resolve fighting and initiate nuclear talks before addressing the detainee situation. There is concern that including detainee matters in the ceasefire talks might complicate and risk them further.

Valizadeh criticized the U.S. for releasing Iranian sailors without advocating for an exchange involving the detained Americans. He questioned the concessions gained in return, expressing frustration over the decision.

The State Department designated Valizadeh as ‘wrongfully detained’ in May 2025, placing his case under hostage affairs. American officials Marco Rubio, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner lead efforts without significant State Department involvement. Valizadeh awaits public acknowledgment from these officials regarding the detainee situation.

A proposed U.S.-Iran agreement could begin with reducing violence and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, later addressing Iran’s nuclear program.

Background of Valizadeh’s Detention

Valizadeh, a U.S. citizen since 2022, worked for Radio Farda, a U.S.-funded broadcaster. He believed assurances from Iranian authorities made his return to Tehran safe; however, these assurances are now thought to be part of a trap involving Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps interests.

Accused of cooperating with a hostile government, Valizadeh faced detention on vague national security charges. His arrest was not publicly acknowledged for two months, and he was placed in solitary confinement and subjected to intense interrogation.

Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty president Stephen Capus expressed hope for Valizadeh’s eventual release, highlighting his callous separation from family and expressing gratitude for the U.S. designation of wrongful detention.

Reporters Olivia Gazis and Justine Redman contributed information to this article.