IFJ Calls Attention on Iran's Desperate Means to Curb Press Freedom

The International Federation of Journalists urged the international community to reject Iran's "massive attack on independent media" that has translated into the imprisonment of countless journalists and the cracking down on independent media, both domestic and international.

"The rulers of Iran appear determined to stifle dissent and to isolate its people from the outside world," said Aidan White, IFJ General Secretary. "It's a desperate but futile attempt to turn the clock back." 

According to reports, the head of Iran's judiciary, Ayatollah Mahmoud Hashemi-Shahroudi, has said in a memo to judges that measures are needed to contain the growing criticism of the government in the independent media. He reportedly singled out websites and satellites channels and called for prosecution of any person who cooperates with them.

The IFJ has repeatedly criticised Iranian authorities for their heavy handed way in suppressing independent reporting of the unprecedented show of opposition to the regime following the controversial re-election of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad last month. The government expelled foreign correspondents and attempted to jam broadcasts of international channels and to block websites.

Scores of Iranian journalists have also been arrested, while others went into hiding to evade arrest. According to the Association of Iranian Journalists (AoIJ), an IFJ affiliate, there are still 20 journalists in detention.