PAAIA Condemns Plot to Kidnap Iranian American Journalist, Applauds Law Enforcement

Washington, DC – Today, the Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans (PAAIA), a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization serving the interests of the Iranian American community, reacted to news that an Iranian American journalist living in Brooklyn, New York was the target of an alleged kidnapping plot by an Iranian intelligence network. The exiled journalist, Masih Alinejad, has been a staunch critic of the Iranian government and an advocate for women’s rights.

In response to the news of the attempted kidnapping, and the indictment of five individuals in connection to the plot, PAAIA Executive Director Leila Austin issued the following statement.

“PAAIA is appalled at news of the attempt to kidnap an Iranian American on U.S. soil to silence her freedom of speech.  These actions are shameful and run counter to the values and beliefs that all Americans including Iranian Americans hold true. We are thankful that Masih Alinejad is safe, and we are grateful for the vigilance of the FBI and the law enforcement community whose work prevented this hateful act from transpiring.” 

July 14, 2021