Kidnapped Italian Reporter Confirmed Alive

One of the biggest stories in the Italian news lately is that of a reporter for La Repubblica, Daniele Mastrogiacomo, who is missing in Afghanistan. Here’s a round-up of how the story has progressed:

• March 8 – After Mastrogiacomo disappeared and was feared kidnapped by the Taliban, Italy waited for news.
• March 8 – Then the country wanted proof that he was still alive and well before they started negotiating.
• March 9 – The Taliban said Mastrogiacomo would be freed if Italian troops were pulled out of Afghanistan.
• March 9 – Appeals for Mastrogiacomo’s release are coming from all quarters, including Italian footballers.
• March 12 – The Italian Foreign Minister has confirmed that Mastrogiacomo is alive and his captors have been identified.

As the country awaits further news, we all hope for the best.