Italy’s Justice Ministry has announced a request to revoke the arrest of 38-year-old Mohammad Abedini Najafabadi, who was detained in Milan last month after being sought by the U.S. for allegedly providing materials used in a deadly drone attack. The attack was linked to an Iranian-backed militia targeting a military base in Jordan.
According to Italy's Justice Ministry, they concluded that the allegations against Mr. Abedini did not meet the criteria for extradition under the existing treaty with the United States. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni noted that this decision came shortly after Iran released Italian journalist Cecilia Sala, which some believe signals a diplomatic exchange between the two nations.
While Iranian state media reported that Mr. Abedini would be returning to Iran soon, the Italian government has yet to confirm his release. The Ministry stated that no sufficient evidence was presented to substantiate claims regarding Abedini's support for a foreign terrorist organization, as the charges aren't deemed punishable under Italian law. This move demonstrates Italy’s complex position in diplomatic negotiations amidst ongoing tensions between Iran and the U.S.
According to Italy's Justice Ministry, they concluded that the allegations against Mr. Abedini did not meet the criteria for extradition under the existing treaty with the United States. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni noted that this decision came shortly after Iran released Italian journalist Cecilia Sala, which some believe signals a diplomatic exchange between the two nations.
While Iranian state media reported that Mr. Abedini would be returning to Iran soon, the Italian government has yet to confirm his release. The Ministry stated that no sufficient evidence was presented to substantiate claims regarding Abedini's support for a foreign terrorist organization, as the charges aren't deemed punishable under Italian law. This move demonstrates Italy’s complex position in diplomatic negotiations amidst ongoing tensions between Iran and the U.S.
