Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday presented the 2025 Simon Bolívar National Journalism Award to Iranian news anchor Sahar Emami.

In footage widely shared on social media during Israel’s 12-day war with Iran, Emami was seen broadcasting live from the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting news studio in Tehran, when the IRIB building was struck by the Israeli Air Force on June 16.

The blast abruptly cut off her remarks as smoke, dust and papers were seen flying in the background. Emami, covered in a black hijab, got up from her chair and in apparent shock walked out from the scene.

Tehran’s Press TV quoted Maduro heaping praise on Emami. He commended her “courage” and the Iranian people for “heroically resisting” its enemies.

He condemned Israel and the United States for conducting attacks in Iran.

Iran’s Ambassador to Venezuela Ali Chegini accepted the journalism award on behalf of Emami.

Image - JNS/Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Credit: The Kremlin.