Iranian human rights activist and 2023 Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi has been sentenced to more than seven years in prison, according to her lawyers and a group that supports her.
New Prison Sentence and Hunger Strike
Mohammadi, 53, ended a week-long hunger strike on Sunday, the Narges Foundation stated. She informed her lawyer, Mostafa Nili, via phone call from prison on Sunday that she received the sentence on Saturday.
The sentencing includes six years for “gathering and collusion to commit crimes,” and an additional one-and-a-half years for “propaganda activities.” Mohammadi will also be exiled for two years to the city of Khosf in the eastern province of South Khorasan and faces a two-year ban on leaving the country.
Lawyer Mostafa Nili indicated the verdict is not final and could be appealed. He also expressed hope for Mohammadi’s temporary release on bail for medical treatment, citing her health issues.
Mohammadi began her hunger strike on February 2 to protest conditions in prison and restrictions on communication with lawyers and family. The Narges Foundation reported her physical condition is “deeply alarming.” She was briefly hospitalized due to her deteriorating health but was returned to the Ministry of Intelligence’s security detention centre in Mashhad before completing treatment.
Mohammadi is a prominent writer and journalist, serving as deputy director of the Defenders of Human Rights Center (DHRC), which advocates for political prisoners and broader human rights reforms. She also campaigns against the death penalty and corruption.
She was arrested on December 12 after speaking at a memorial for lawyer Khosrow Alikordi, where Prosecutor Hasan Hematifar said she made “provocative remarks” and encouraged “norm-breaking slogans.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges did Narges Mohammadi face?
She was sentenced to six years in prison for “gathering and collusion to commit crimes” and one-and-a-half years for “propaganda activities.”
Where will Narges Mohammadi be exiled?
She is to be exiled for two years to the city of Khosf in the eastern province of South Khorasan.
Was Narges Mohammadi hospitalized?
She was briefly transferred to the hospital due to her deteriorating health, but was returned to the Ministry of Intelligence’s security detention centre before completing her treatment.
Given the recent sentencing and ongoing concerns for her health, what impact might this have on the future of human rights advocacy in Iran?
