Iranian journalist Pouria Zeraati, a 36-year-old presenter at London-based broadcaster Iran International, has made a resilient return to television just a week after surviving a stabbing outside his home
The attack occurred in Wimbledon, southwest London, on 29th March, where Zeraati was stabbed in the leg by three unidentified assailants as he approached his car.
Despite the shocking incident, no arrests have been made by the police so far. However, authorities express confidence that the suspects, believed to have fled the country from Heathrow Airport soon after the attack, do not pose an immediate risk to London or the UK communities.
In a display of determination, Zeraati returned to Iran International, emphasising that “the show must go on.” His return was met with applause from colleagues in the studio, showcasing his resilience following the traumatic experience.
Iran International's presenter @pouriazeraati returned on-air on Friday night with his weekly TV show "The Last Word" following a one-week hiatus caused by the injury he sustained in a knife attack outside his house in London. pic.twitter.com/DIGmmkZtYN
— Iran International English (@IranIntl_En) April 5, 2024
Reflecting on the attack, Zeraati referred to it as a “warning shot,” indicating that the assailants had the opportunity to inflict more harm but chose not to.
He expressed gratitude for surviving the ordeal and reiterated his commitment to continuing his work despite his challenges.
In an interview with ITV News before his return, Zeraati recounted the harrowing moments of the attack, detailing how he was approached under false pretenses before being held and stabbed. He shared his thoughts during the attack, fearing for his life but ultimately surviving with non-life-threatening injuries.
Mehdi Hosseini Matin, the Iranian charge d’affaires in the UK, distanced Iran from the knife attack, denying any involvement or connection to the assailants.
The incident highlights ongoing security concerns faced by journalists and media organizations, particularly those covering sensitive or controversial topics.
Iran International, in particular, has faced threats and challenges, leading to heightened security measures such as armed police protection.
Zeraati’s experience underscores the risks faced by journalists globally, especially those reporting on issues that may draw unwanted attention or opposition from certain groups or governments.
Iran International’s history of facing threats and security challenges became more apparent last year when the station temporarily suspended operations in London due to escalating threats from Iran.
The station relocated to studios in Washington before resuming operations at a new London location in September.
The broadcaster’s concerns were further validated when a Chechen-born individual was convicted in December for spying on Iran International, aiding terror-related activities. This incident serves as a reminder of the persistent dangers faced by media outlets covering sensitive geopolitical issues.
Despite these challenges, journalists like Zeraati continue to fulfill their duties, highlighting the importance of press freedom and the risks associated with speaking truth to power in certain contexts.
Zeraati’s courageous return to television sends a powerful message about resilience in the face of adversity, emphasizing the indomitable spirit of journalists committed to upholding journalistic integrity and reporting on critical global events.
