Sun Jan 12 21:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Italy Releases Iranian Citizen Wanted by U.S. in Drone Attack Case

**Rome, Italy –** Italy has released Iranian citizen Mohammad Abedini, who was wanted by the United States for his alleged involvement in a drone attack in Jordan that killed three American servicemen. The decision, announced Sunday, follows a request from Italy’s Justice Minister to an appeals court to revoke Abedini’s arrest. The ministry cited inconsistencies between U.S. and Italian law regarding the charges against Abedini, specifically the violation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. Iranian state television reported Abedini’s return to Iran shortly after the announcement.

Abedini’s arrest on December 16th, just days before the detention of Italian journalist Cecilia Sala in Iran, sparked speculation of a prisoner exchange. Ms. Sala’s release last week fueled these theories. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni confirmed a “diplomatic triangulation” involving the U.S. and Iran, stating that Washington’s interests were part of the negotiations leading to both releases. Ms. Meloni’s recent trip to meet U.S. President-elect Donald Trump in Florida is believed to have played a significant role in the successful negotiations. The U.S. Justice Department alleges Abedini supplied drone technology used in the January 2024 attack.

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