According to a report by Iranian News Agency IRNA on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026, Iran has strongly condemned the assassination of Ali Noureddine, a television presenter with Lebanon-based Al-Manar TV, describing the killing as a grave violation of international law and an attack on press freedom.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Jan. 27, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei denounced the killing in the strongest terms, characterising it as a “heinous and terrorist crime” that directly contravenes fundamental international principles protecting journalists and media workers, particularly in times of conflict.
Baqaei extended Iran’s condolences to Noureddine’s family, colleagues and the wider Lebanese media community, stressing that targeting journalists represents an assault not only on individuals but also on the public’s right to information. He noted that attacks on members of the media undermine freedom of expression and are explicitly prohibited under international humanitarian law.
“The assassination of a media figure is a gross violation of the fundamental rules of international law, which strictly forbid any form of attack against journalists and media personnel,” Baqaei said, according to the statement. He added that such acts contribute to the spread of fear and instability while silencing voices that play a critical role in informing the public.
The Iranian spokesperson linked the killing to what he described as Israel’s continued violations of its ceasefire agreement with Lebanon, reached in late 2024. He accused Israel of repeatedly disregarding the terms of the truce and pursuing actions that threaten regional stability.
Baqaei called on countries in the region and the broader international community to take concrete steps to confront what he described as Israel’s “lawlessness and warmongering.” He said silence or inaction in the face of such incidents only encourages further violations and erodes the credibility of international legal frameworks designed to protect civilians and non-combatants.
He also urged international organisations, particularly those responsible for upholding human rights and press freedom, to investigate the assassination and hold those responsible accountable. According to Baqaei, ensuring accountability is essential to preventing future attacks on journalists and media institutions.
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