BBC News Persian, under the leadership of Director General Tim Davie, has publicly accused Iranian authorities of intensifying a campaign of intimidation against its Persian journalists and their family members. The broadcaster is calling on Tehran to immediately cease its repressive actions and is preparing a complaint to the UN, underscoring its commitment to press freedom and human rights.

BBC News Persian, led by director-general Tim Davie, condemned the Iranian regime for an escalating campaign of intimidation against its Persian journalists and their families. The broadcaster detailed incidents including interrogations, travel bans, and threats, and announced plans to file a fresh complaint with the UN to hold Iran accountable for these human rights abuses.

Tim Davie, the BBC Director-General, issued a statement condemning the Iranian authorities for using the judiciary to harass, charge, and convict BBC News Persian journalists in absentia. He called for an end to these actions and highlighted the long-standing persecution of the Persian service’s journalists.

On July 5, 2023, the UN International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran confirmed that its investigation into human rights abuses would include examining the harassment of BBC News Persian journalists and their families. The BBC had filed submissions detailing threats, reprisals, and state-sponsored efforts to silence independent reporting on the protests, emphasizing its commitment to press freedom and the protection of its staff.

The UN Fact-Finding Mission on Iran confirmed its investigation into ongoing harassment and targeting of BBC News Persian journalists and their families by Iranian authorities. The report details efforts by the Iranian government to silence coverage of protests, including labeling the service as a terrorist organization and interfering with its satellite transmissions. In response, BBC News Persian has actively engaged with the Mission and submitted evidence, illustrating its commitment to independent reporting and human rights.

BBC Persian journalists continue to report on Iran’s anti-government protests despite facing severe harassment, online threats, sanctions, and pressure from the Iranian government. This steadfast commitment to independent journalism under dire circumstances highlights the service’s active resistance to authoritarian suppression.

BBC News Persian has filed an urgent complaint to the United Nations, citing ongoing harassment including asset freezes, online abuse, and threats against its journalists and their families. This move highlights its stance against authoritarian repression and defence of press freedom.