Tehran, June 29, 2025 – The Europe Today: In a powerful gesture of solidarity and recognition, the government of Venezuela has awarded the prestigious Simón Bolívar National Journalism Prize to Iranian news anchor Sahar Emami, who demonstrated exceptional courage during an Israeli attack on the Islamic Republic of Iran News Network (IRINN) studio.
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro presented the award in honor of Emami and in memory of the media personnel who lost their lives in the Israeli airstrike targeting the IRINN building — part of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) corporation.
The award was formally received on behalf of Emami and the families of the deceased by Ali Chegini, Iran’s Ambassador to Venezuela, during an official ceremony.
President Maduro praised Emami’s bravery and resilience, hailing her actions as a symbol of journalistic commitment and courage in the face of war and aggression. “This award is a tribute not only to a courageous journalist but also to the martyred media professionals who stood firm in the line of duty,” he said.
Sahar Emami was live on air when an Israeli missile strike targeted the IRINN studio. Despite the chaos and destruction, she returned shortly afterward to resume broadcasting — a moment widely recognized as an act of exceptional professional resolve under fire.
Earlier, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, also commended Emami’s courage and resilience, noting her commitment to truth and national duty in a time of unprecedented crisis.
The Simón Bolívar Prize is one of Venezuela’s highest honors in journalism, awarded to individuals who exemplify truth, resistance, and the legacy of anti-imperialist values championed by South American liberator Simón Bolívar. Emami’s recognition is viewed as a powerful symbol of solidarity between Venezuela and Iran in the face of shared struggles and resistance against external aggression.
