Blurs

Iran International is a London-based Persian-language news organisation, launched in May 2017.  It broadcasts 24/7 and primarily targets audiences inside Iran and the Iranian diaspora. It is owned by Volant Media UK Ltd, a privately owned UK company. Who actually owns it though? This is where things become interesting. Iran International says it is privately owned and editorially independent, and specifically denies being funded or controlled by the Saudi government. Its parent company, Volant Media, describes its networks as editorially independent. However, there has been substantial reporting linking its financial backing to Saudi Arabia. In 2018, The Guardian reported claims from sources familiar with the operation that approximately $250 million had come from Saudi Arabia's royal court. The reporting also highlighted the involvement of Saudi-British media executive Adel Al-Abdulkarim, who had connections to Saudi media figures.  Iran International disputed the allegation...

Volant Media: Inside the London-Based Broadcaster Behind Iran International Volant Media is a privately owned media company headquartered in London that has become a significant player in Persian-language broadcasting.  Best known for operating the television networks Iran International and Afghanistan International , the company has built a large audience inside Iran and across the global Iranian diaspora while also attracting political scrutiny and controversy. Its story sits at the intersection of media freedom, geopolitics, and the growing influence of exile journalism. Corporate background and structure Volant Media was established in the United Kingdom in 2015 as a private broadcasting company.  From its base in London, it develops and distributes television and digital news content aimed primarily at audiences in regions with restricted or heavily controlled media environments . Volant Media is based in northwest London, and its official registered office is in the Pa...