Iranian journalist and documentary filmmaker detained in Evin prison

Washington D.C., January 8, 2025—The Committee to Protect Journalists is alarmed by reports that Islamic Republic of Iran authorities arrested Iranian journalist Mohammad-Hossein (Mehrdad) Aladin in the capital, Tehran, and have since detained him in Evin prison, according to news reports. 

“Iranian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release journalist Mehrdad Aladin and cease the practice of arbitrarily jailing members of the press,” said Yeganeh Rezaian, CPJ’s interim Middle East and North Africa program coordinator. “Journalists must be able to work without fear of retaliation.”

Aladin, a reporter, photojournalist, and a documentary filmmaker for the Didban Iran news website, was immediately arrested Janurary 7 after appearing at the preliminary court known as Shahi Moghadas, which is based inside Evin prison. Aladin was summoned earlier in the week to be interviewed before the court, according to reports. 

Authorities have yet to publicly announce any charges against Aladin. 

CPJ was also unable to confirm whether the journalist had been charged. 

Aladin covers social and environmental issues. Aladin’s brother Koroush Aladin is a U.S. based journalist who reports for Voice of America Persian service. 

CPJ emailed the Iranian mission to the United Nations in New York requesting comment on the arrest of Aladin but did not receive a response.