The Italian government announced that Mohammad Abedini Najafabadi, sought for his alleged role in a drone strike that killed three American soldiers, may soon be released following the ministry’s request for his extradition revocation.
Italy's Justice Ministry Requests Release of Iranian Man Sought by U.S.
Italy's Justice Ministry Requests Release of Iranian Man Sought by U.S.
In a surprising turn of events, Italy's Justice Ministry sought to revoke the arrest of an Iranian man accused by the U.S. government of involvement in a deadly drone attack.
Italy’s Justice Minister has moved to revoke the arrest warrant for Mohammad Abedini Najafabadi, a 38-year-old Iranian man sought by the United States over his alleged provision of materials used in a drone attack responsible for the deaths of three American soldiers. Mr. Abedini was detained in Milan last month, following a U.S. Justice Department request for extradition based on accusations of aiding an Iranian-backed militia’s attack on a military base in Jordan.
On Sunday, January 12, the Italian Justice Ministry stated it lacked sufficient grounds for extradition. Although Iranian state media and Mr. Abedini’s legal representation reported his imminent freedom, official confirmation from the Italian government is still pending. This request for release follows the recent return of Italian journalist Cecilia Sala, who had been held in Iran amid controversial circumstances.
While Italy has denied any direct link between the cases, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hinted at a diplomatic 'triangulation' involving both the U.S. and Iran regarding Ms. Sala's release. Shortly after the announcement concerning Mr. Abedini, Iranian news agency IRNA reported that he would soon return home. The Justice Ministry explained its rationale, emphasizing that extradition between Italy and the U.S. requires that the crime in question is recognized in both countries.
The ministry noted that charges related to export violations and support for a foreign terrorist group do not align with Italian laws. They maintained that Mr. Abedini was engaged in the trade of dual-use technologies, which are not exclusively military in their application. Armenian journalist Leily Nikounazar contributed reporting to this developing story.
