HRANA News Agency- Zubaida Hajizadeh and Nima Ebrahimzadeh, wife and son of Behnam Ebrahimzadeh a political prisoner, wrote in a letter: “Today we were informed about the critical condition of Behnam through a phone call. We were at the height of fear and unsure of what to do? Yes, today we were informed that Behnam has been transferred to Rajayee Shahr Prison, Ward 1, Hall #2.
Since August 9th, Behnam has started a hunger strike, protesting difficult prison condition and lack of attention from the authorities. Today, we were also informed about another bad news, which was security forces attacking the prisoners and beating them. Behnam has not been able to even stand on his feet because of his serious health condition and being on hunger strike.”
The following is the full text of the letter, a copy of which has been submitted to HRANA:
“Be our voice, we are silenced prisoners!
Trade unions, humanitarian organizations, human rights organizations and Amnesty International, child rights organizations and women’s rights activists! The life of Behnam Ebrahimzadeh, father of my sick child, is in danger!
This letter has been prepared by myself and my son, Nima who is suffering from blood cancer, and calls upon you, the awaken consciousness of the world!
Friends!
Today we were informed about the critical condition of Behnam through a telephone call. We were at the height of fear and unsure of what to do? Yes, today we were informed that Behnam has been transferred to Rajayee Shahr Prison, Ward 1, Hall #2. Since August 9th, Behnam has started a hunger strike, protesting difficult prison condition and lack of attention from the authorities. Today, we were also informed about another bad news, which was security forces attacking the prisoners and beating them. Behnam has not been able to even stand on his feet because of his serious health condition and being on hunger strike. We have been receiving bad news one after another. They have punished Behnam and transferred him to a section full of “criminals” and drug dealers. His safety is seriously compromised as he has to live with inmates carrying knives and weapon in the prison.
Friends!
We receive worrying reports and constantly ask ourselves “what to do?” It’s been several years now that I live with my sick child in a tough situation. Although we have been blessed with your support and many kind individuals sympathizing with us, I don’t foresee any solution as I am losing my child and Behnam’s problem has not been resolved. How many times Nima’s screams woke me up in the middle of the night? I had to calm him down and promise him that there will be an end to this tough time. Unfortunately, there is no end to these long and dark nights!
We’re very concerned about this situation. I am asking for your help. Please raise your voice and ask the international community to support Behnam’s freedom. Believe me, I have no patience anymore! Behnam is not a killer, nor a thief, not been involved in any corruption. Behnam’s only crime was defending the rights of his countrymen, and kids who spend days and nights in the street. Why people who defend other innocent people and follow their conscience should be prosecuted and imprisoned in this country?
Our endless unanswered letters to government officials and other authorities have left us desperate. We are now asking you, the supportive compatriots with awakened consciousness, not to leave us alone. Please protest, be our voice, and make sure your voice is heard. We are asking you to organize a national campaign to put more pressure on the judiciary system to release Behnam, my husband and father of a sick child. We genuinely appreciate your support anywhere in the world in advance.
Best regards and with hope to release Behnam Ebrahimzadeh
Zobeydah Hajizadeh and Nima Ebrahimzadeh
19Aug2014
