Iranian Proxies Jailed for Attack on British Journalist

Two Romanian men were sentenced for stabbing Pouria Zeraati, a British journalist for Iran International, acting as proxies for the Iranian government. The attack, ordered by a third party linked to Iran, was deemed intended for the benefit of a foreign power, with involvement denied by Iran.

Two Romanian men were handed lengthy prison sentences in the UK for their roles in a violent attack on a journalist.

Pouria Zaratifoukolaei, a journalist of Iranian origin known as Pouria Zeraati, was stabbed near his London home in March 2024. The attack was linked to his work at Iran International, which faces criticism and hostility from the Iranian government.

In court, prosecutors presented evidence that the assault had ties to the Iranian state, but Tehran denied involvement. Sentences of 8 and 12 years were given. The victim's media organization expressed relief at the trial's conclusion and appreciated governmental support.