Statement from Monique Villa in Response to Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe’s Temporary Release on Furlough

STATEMENT FROM THOMSON REUTERS FOUNDATION CEO
MONIQUE VILLA IN RESPONSE TO THE NEWS OF NAZANIN ZAGHARI-RATCLIFFE’S RELEASE ON FURLOUGH FOR INITIAL 3 DAYS 

“We are delighted to hear the news of Nazanin’s temporary release from Evin prison, after more than two and a half years in detention, including eight months of total isolation. 

We see this as a positive sign and hope that this will lead to her permanent release and an end to her traumatic ordeal for good. Nazanin and her family have waited long enough for justice. 

It fills my heart with joy to see pictures of her holding her daughter Gabriella, now four years old, in her arms. What’s missing in the picture is Nazanin’s husband, Richard Ratcliffe, whose courage and strength throughout has been inspirational. I can only hope they are reunited as soon as possible. I have just spoken with Richard, and he is overjoyed and filled with hope. 

This is a happy day for Nazanin, her family, her friends, and all of us at the Thomson Reuters Foundation. 

We sincerely hope that the ongoing diplomatic efforts will lead to Nazanin’s freedom.” 

Monique Villa, Thomson Reuters Foundation CEO