# Iran International's Journalists Subjected To Transnational Repression Globally

In August 2025, a shocking statement from international lawyers at Doughty Street Chambers in the UK shed light on the dire situation faced by journalists working for Iran International. The news highlighted that numerous Iranian journalists and their family members have been subjected to severe threats and intimidation by the Iranian authorities over the past six weeks.

## A Pattern of Repression

Iran International, a reputable news platform dedicated to covering events and developments related to Iran and regional stories affecting Iranians at home and abroad, has long been targeted by the Iranian authorities. Since its formation in 2017, the journalists working for Iran International have faced various forms of intimidation, including assassination and kidnapping threats, physical assaults, online abuse, harassment, and hacking.

One notable example is that of journalist Pouria Zeraati, who was stabbed by men believed to be acting on behalf of the Tehran regime in March 2024. Another instance occurred in March 2025 when two men were convicted for their involvement in a murder-for-hire scheme targeting Iranian-American journalist Masih Alinejad.

## Transnational Repression

Iranian authorities have consistently demonstrated a pattern of transnational repression, impacting journalists and their families globally. As stated by the Joint Committee on Human Rights, tactics employed by Iran include assassination plots, physical attacks, intimidation of family members, asset freezing, judicial proceedings, smear campaigns, online abuse, surveillance, digital attacks such as hacking, doxing, and impersonation.

## Urgent Appeal to the UN

In response to the escalating threats against 45 journalists and 315 of their family members, Iran International's legal team has filed an Urgent Appeal with five United Nations experts. The appeal calls upon the UN to take action against Iran over the serious risks posed to these journalists in seven countries worldwide.

## A Call for Immediate Action

The legal team emphasizes that despite past threats not being new, the current situation represents an "alarming and unprecedented escalation" of the intimidation and violence inflicted upon these individuals. They highlight that Iranian authorities have falsely accused the journalists of spying for Israel and have issued credible threats to kill both them and their family members.

## A Global Response Needed

The Urgent Appeal highlights the need for immediate action from states worldwide. The Joint Committee on Human Rights has proposed measures for protecting people within jurisdiction and addressing transnational repression as part of national security strategies.

While the UN experts' response is yet to be confirmed, it is crucial that all relevant parties take necessary steps to ensure the safety and well-being of those at risk. Only through collective action can we hope to mitigate the threat posed by Iranian authorities against journalists working abroad.