By August 7, 2026, CBS News reported on a new message from Reza Valizadeh, a journalist and U.S. citizen, detained in Iran’s Evin Prison. In his recent statement, Valizadeh shared updates on his condition and that of fellow detainee Kamran Hekmati. Both have been identified by the State Department as wrongfully detained. Valizadeh’s communication highlights the severe conditions inside the prison.
Details of Detainees’ Conditions
Kamran Hekmati was recently returned to prison after being granted less than a 30-day medical leave. His advocate, Kieran Ramsey from Global Reach, noted that Hekmati could not access chemotherapy for a recurring cancer. Hekmati faces charges linked to past travel to Israel following the 2025 Israel-Iran conflict.
Valizadeh, once associated with Radio Free Europe, mentioned that authorities have prohibited his family from visiting him for five months, viewed as punitive. He is also concerned about tuberculosis symptoms observed in a fellow inmate. Valizadeh reported a lack of medical care in the prison, risking exposure to contagious diseases like TB.
Perspectives from Valizadeh and Legal Counsel
According to Valizadeh, prisoners have been deprived of library and sports facilities for over a year. Supplies stolen by prison staff and the inadequate professionalism of prison doctors are major concerns. Diseases like tuberculosis have re-emerged, with cases going untreated until life-threatening stages. Due to substandard prison food, many inmates avoid meals altogether.
Attempts to raise issues about prison conditions result in punishment. For instance, Valizadeh has been denied family visits as retribution. Furthermore, non-political prisoners, mainly convicted of financial crimes, have been transferred into political wards, believed to undermine political prisoner unity.
Advocacy Efforts and Official Responses
Valizadeh’s lawyer, Ryan Fayhee, emphasized the importance of prioritizing U.S. citizens’ release in discussions with Iran. While the Trump administration has tracked the case, it has not publicly acknowledged addressing specific detainees’ situations. Valizadeh’s decision to release his message reflects desperation due to the dire circumstances within Evin.