Iran's Anchor "Sahar Emami" Awarded Simon Bolívar Journalism Prize

Emami became a symbol of resilience after she was seen on live television raising her hand in defiance just moments before an Israeli airstrike targeted the Iranian state broadcaster’s headquarters in Tehran earlier this year. The dramatic footage, which circulated widely across international media, captured the harrowing moment the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) studios came under direct attack.

According to IRNA, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro personally conferred the award to honor both Emami and the victims of the Israeli strike on the IRIB network. The ceremony, held in Caracas, highlighted what Maduro described as "unparalleled bravery and professional integrity in the face of aggression."

Iran’s ambassador to Venezuela, Ali Shaghini, officially accepted the award on behalf of Emami and the families of the fallen media personnel. “This recognition extends beyond one journalist; it honors the collective sacrifice of Iranian media workers who stood firm in the line of duty,” Shaghini said.

In a statement following the ceremony, Emami expressed gratitude for the solidarity shown by Venezuela. “This award belongs to every journalist who risks their life to speak truth in the face of war,” she said. “Our voices cannot be silenced by bombs.”

President Maduro, who has maintained close ties with Tehran in recent years, used the occasion to denounce what he called “imperialist aggression” and praised the Iranian media’s role in “resisting misinformation and imperialist narratives.”

The Simón Bolívar National Journalism Prize is awarded annually by the Venezuelan government to individuals or institutions that exemplify journalistic excellence, often with a political undertone reflecting Caracas’ anti-Western stance. This year’s selection of an Iranian journalist underscores the deepening media and diplomatic ties between Venezuela and Iran.

The Israeli strike on the IRIB building, part of a broader escalation in regional tensions, resulted in multiple casualties and was widely condemned by Iranian authorities. While Israel has not officially commented on the attack, it came amid heightened hostilities between the two nations.

The international community continues to monitor developments in the region, with press freedom advocates warning of growing dangers for journalists operating in conflict zones.