For several years, the television channel Iran International, located in Europe, has been under considerable pressure from the Tehran regime, which labels it as “evil.” In a tense geopolitical context, Iranian authorities are intensifying their threats against this opposition media, threatening physical targets and drastic measures to attempt to stifle its influence.
The impact of Iranian threats on Iran International
On Sunday, March 15, Iran again directed its verbal attacks against Iran International by classifying it as a “terrorist organization.” This channel, based in the UK and widely broadcast by satellite, attracts between 40 and 50 million weekly viewers. Its news coverage sheds light on protests against the regime and its brutal repression, inciting ire from Iranian authorities who wish to see this media disappear.
A media bunker under surveillance
The premises of the channel have been labeled a “bunker” by journalists who have been admitted. Security is heightened: anti-intrusion concrete blocks, fencing, and state-of-the-art security technology are in place to protect employees from real threats. The managers of Iran International and its journalists live in a climate of terror, regularly receiving intimidation messages, such as promises of physical assault.
Journalists targeted
Journalists and employees of the channel are often forced to cut ties with their families in Iran to avoid exposing them to reprisals. The threats, some of which have been documented, reveal the real danger facing these professionals. Explicit messages announcing “We will kill you in London” or “Resign” demonstrate a pervasive and serious threat. These actions have been exacerbated by acts of violence against journalists, with known assaults occurring outside the channel’s offices.
The importance of on-the-ground sources
To fuel its live content from Iran, Iran International relies on videos and photos sent by informants on Iranian soil. Before the regime implemented an internet blackout, the channel received up to 12,000 messages per day. Currently, this number has decreased to around 400, limiting the possibilities for covering events. Despite this, the channel continues to gather information that displeases Iranian authorities, leading to the arrests of individuals suspected of collaborating with the media.
Accusations and the defense of an independent media
In the face of these pressures, the Iranian government regularly accuses Iran International of being an agent of the United States or Israel, attempting to link this media to foreign powers. Adam Baillie, the channel’s spokesperson, refutes these accusations, asserting the independence of their journalistic mission. While he acknowledges that the media’s investor is a Saudi British national, he insists that there is no connection with the Saudi government. The goal, according to him, is to create an independent media outlet in the Middle East.
A constantly evolving geopolitical context
This climate of tension arises as Iran intensifies its strikes in the region in response to various bombings. The threats against Iran International highlight a broader struggle between authoritarian regimes and opposition media, underscoring the crucial importance of freedom of expression at a time when sources of information are often besieged by censorship. The global framework within which this conflict unfolds remains complex, fueled by strained relations between Iran and other international actors.
