Photojournalists Arrested in Iran
Iranian authorities have detained photojournalists Artin Ghazanfari and Hamed Araghi in January 2026, with news of their arrests emerging weeks after a nationwide internet shutdown was imposed across the country. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has issued a call for their immediate release, highlighting concerns that Iranian authorities are exploiting the prolonged information blackout to target media professionals.
Details of the Detentions
Hamed Araghi, a sports photojournalist, was arrested by security forces on January 9, 2026, in the northern city of Karaj. Freelance photojournalist Artin Ghazanfari was detained on January 18, 2026, at his home in the capital, Tehran. During Ghazanfari's arrest, security forces reportedly confiscated his electronic equipment and books. Another report indicates his arrest occurred on January 19, 2026. The CPJ has stated that it has been unable to confirm the specific charges against either journalist or their current whereabouts. Both Ghazanfari's and Araghi's Instagram accounts have since been deactivated.
It has been noted that Artin Ghazanfari, who is also identified as a Baha'i citizen, had previously faced arrest in 2009 and served a one-year jail term.
Internet Shutdown and Information Control
The arrests of Ghazanfari and Araghi occurred in the context of a significant internet shutdown that began in Iran on January 8, 2026. This widespread disruption has severely limited journalists' ability to report and has cut off communication channels with the outside world. On January 25, 2026, the Ministry of Communications denied any immediate plans to restore internet access.
The CPJ's Regional Director, Sara Qudah, commented on the situation, stating, 'The detention of Artin Ghazanfari and Hamed Araghi for unknown reasons shows how Iranian authorities are exploiting a prolonged information blackout to target the media.' Qudah further urged, 'Iran must immediately disclose where these journalists are being held and the legal basis for their detention.' Human rights organizations have previously highlighted that internet shutdowns in Iran, such as the one in November 2019, have been used to conceal the scale of government crackdowns and killings during protests.
International Calls for Release
The Committee to Protect Journalists, based in New York, formally called on Iranian authorities on January 27, 2026, to immediately release the photojournalists. This appeal underscores ongoing international concern regarding press freedom and human rights in Iran, particularly amidst periods of civil unrest and communication restrictions.
5 Comments
Michelangelo
Journalists aren't above the law, especially if they're inciting unrest. Good for the authorities.
Leonardo
It's deeply concerning when journalists are detained without clear charges, but we also need to understand the full context of their activities in a politically charged environment.
Michelangelo
International groups always meddle. Our government is just ensuring security in tough times.
Leonardo
While the CPJ's call for release is important, the international community also needs to consider the internal challenges Iran faces, beyond just condemning its actions outright.
Michelangelo
Shame on Iran for silencing truth-tellers. This is unacceptable.