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Kamal Jafari Yazdi Arrested by Ministry of Intelligence in Mashhad

Posted on December 10, 2024 by . .

Today, December 10, Kamal Jafari Yazdi, a political defendant, was arrested by agents of the Ministry of Intelligence in Mashhad and transferred to an undisclosed location.

According to HRANA, the news agency of Human Rights Activists in Iran, Kamal Jafari Yazdi was detained at 12:30 PM on Tuesday, December 10, 2024. A source close to his family confirmed the arrest, stating that he was taken from his residence in Mashhad. During the arrest, intelligence agents searched his home and confiscated his mobile phone.

As of this report, the reasons for his arrest and the charges against him remain unknown.

Kamal Jafari Yazdi has a history of prior arrests and judicial confrontations due to his activities.

Heydar Fattahi Sentenced to 37 Months in Prison

Posted on December 10, 2024 by . .

Freedom of Expression, News

Heydar Fattahi, HRANA, Marivan, حیدر فتاحی

Heydar Fattahi, a resident of Marivan, has been sentenced to 37 months in prison by the Revolutionary Court of Marivan.

According to HRANA, citing Kolbar News, the court convicted Fattahi on charges of “collaborating with an anti-regime party.”

Fattahi was arrested on June 8, 2024, by agents of the city’s Ministry of Intelligence at his home and was subsequently transferred to the agency’s detention facility in Marivan. He was released after four months on bail of 800 million tomans.

Three Prisoners Executed in Zahedan Prison for Drug-Related Charges

Posted on December 10, 2024December 10, 2024 by . .

Executions, News

HRANA, Zahedan

On December 9, 2024, three prisoners previously sentenced to death on drug-related charges were executed in Zahedan Prison.

According to Haal Vsh, the identities of the executed prisoners, all residents of Zahedan, are:

Khoda-Bakhsh Ghanbarzahi (Barahooie), 40, married, and father of eight.
Omid Hosseinzaie, 33, father of one.
(First Name Unknown) Rakhshani.

Ghanbarzahi and Hosseinzaie were separately arrested in Zahedan in 2022 and subsequently sentenced to death by the city’s Revolutionary Court on drug-related charges.

As of the time of this report, prison officials and relevant authorities have not publicly confirmed the executions.

The reports from the Department of Statistics and Publication of Human Rights Activists for the year 2023 reveal a concerning prevalence of executions for drug offenses in Iran, constituting 56.4% of the total executions. For a comprehensive examination of the details and statistics surrounding the executions in Iran, refer to HRANA’s report.

Court of Appeals Issues Sentences for 15 Baháʼí Citizens in Isfahan Province

Posted on December 10, 2024December 10, 2024 by . .

News, Religious Minorities

Azita Rezvani-Khah, Boshra Motahar, Farkhondeh Rezvan Pey, Firoozeh Rastinejad, Isfahan, Maryam Khorsandi, Mojgan Pourshafe Ardestani, Nasrin Khademi Ghaqarakhi, Nooshin Hemmat, Roya Azadkhosh, Sanaz Rasteh, Sara Shakib, Sholeh Ashouri, Shurangiz Bahamin

The Court of Appeals of Isfahan Province has issued the sentences of 15 Baháʼí citizens residing in Baharestan, Isfahan Province.

The original sentences, which included imprisonment and monetary fines, were confirmed for Mojgan Pourshafe Ardestani, Nasrin Khademi Ghaqarakhi, Azita Rezvani Khah, Sholeh Ashouri, Boshra Motahar, Sara Shakib, Roya Azadkhosh, Nooshin Hemmat, Shurangiz Bahamin, Sanaz Rasteh, Maryam Khorsandi, Farkhandeh Rezvan Pey, and Firoozeh Rastinejad. However, Samira Shakib and Mojdeh Bahamin were only fined, with their prison sentences revoked.

Branch 37 of the Court of Appeals issued its decision on November 20. The final ruling, recently communicated to their attorneys, confirmed the original sentences for 13 individuals while modifying those of two others.

Previously, these individuals were each sentenced by the Revolutionary Court of Isfahan to 5 years in prison, a fine of 50 million tomans, 5 years of social service restrictions, and a 2-year travel ban in May 2024. The charges stem from allegations of “propaganda against the Islamic Republic” and “participation in promotional and educational activities contrary to Islamic law.”

Among the defendants, 11 individuals were detained in 2021 and later released on bail. Security forces had also raided the homes of Mojdeh Bahamin, Farkhandeh Rezvan Pey, Boshra Motahar, and Samira Shakib during the investigation.

Baha’is are subjected to violations of their religious rights, comprising 82% of reports on infringements against religious minorities, according to HRA’s 2023 annual report.

The Baha’i faith is not recognized as a legitimate religion by Iranian authorities, leading to systematic and longstanding violations of the rights of Baha’is in the country. This includes the denial of their fundamental right to practice their religion, which constitutes a clear breach of both Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The United Nations covenant holds that every person has the right to freedom of religion, freedom of converting religion, as well as freedom of expression, individually or collectively; openly or secretly.

Appeals Court Upholds One-Year Prison Sentence for Attorney Mehdi Karimi Farsi

Posted on December 9, 2024 by . .

Freedom of Expression, News

Iran Bar Association, Mehdi Karimi Farsi, Seyed Ali Mazlum, Tehran

The one-year prison sentence for Seyed Mehdi Karimi Farsi, a senior attorney and member of the Central Bar Association, has been upheld by Branch 36 of the Tehran Court of Appeals. This decision confirms the initial ruling by the lower court.

According to the ruling, issued by Branch 36 and delivered to Mr. Karimi Farsi’s defense attorney on November 24, 2024, he was sentenced to one year in prison on charges of “propaganda against the regime.”

Previously, on October 12, 2024, Branch 29 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court, presided over by Judge Seyed Ali Mazlum, had issued the same sentence against Mr. Karimi Farsi.

A court hearing regarding these charges, involving Mr. Karimi Farsi and two other attorneys, was held earlier on February 5, 2024, in the same branch of the Revolutionary Court.

In August 2023, Karimi Farsi drew widespread attention among Iranian attorneys by staging a protest walk across Tehran to defend the independence of the Bar Association. This symbolic act resonated deeply within the legal community and highlighted ongoing concerns over the pressures faced by Iranian lawyers.

Human Rights Day: Honoring Imprisoned Iranian Civil Activists and the Struggle for Freedom and Justice

Posted on December 9, 2024December 9, 2024 by . .

Freedom of Expression, News

HRANA, Human Rights day, Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Human Rights Day is an opportunity to reflect on the plight of civil activists imprisoned in Iran, detained solely for defending fundamental human rights. On this occasion, HRANA has published a list of these activists and calls on the global community to amplify their voices and demand their immediate release.

Observed annually on December 10, Human Rights Day underscores the significance of fundamental rights and the global commitment to their protection and promotion. Since 1948, when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was adopted by the UN General Assembly, this day has symbolized the global struggle for freedom, equality, and human dignity. The UDHR, as the first universal human rights document, established principles such as freedom of expression, the right to a fair trial, and the prohibition of torture as inalienable human rights.

For Iranians, Human Rights Day serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and respecting human rights in a society where activists face significant risks in their pursuit of justice and freedom. Iranian human rights defenders and civil activists face enormous challenges in advocating for these principles. Many have been imprisoned for their efforts to secure equal rights, freedom of expression, and social justice. They are not only denied participation in civic and social affairs but also endure physical and psychological pressures, deprivation of basic rights, and violations of their legal protections.

Highlighting and sharing the names of these activists is not only a tribute to their courage and sacrifices but also a crucial step in raising global awareness about the state of human rights in Iran. This effort can pave the way for increased international support and pressure on Iranian authorities to honor their human rights commitments.

Moreover, this day is an opportunity to consider the role of community members in advancing human rights goals. Raising awareness, supporting civil activists, and holding authorities accountable are effective steps toward building a more just and free society. To this end, HRANA has published a report listing the names and details of some imprisoned human rights defenders and civil activists in Iran, aiming to amplify their voices and bring their call for freedom and justice to the global stage.

The List of Imprisoned Activists:

	1. Golrokh Iraee Civil Rights Activist Charges: Assembly and collusion against national security Sentenced: Five years and social deprivations Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	2. Fatemeh Sepehri Civil Rights Activist Charges: Collaboration with hostile governments, assembly and collusion against national security, insulting the Supreme Leader of Iran, Propaganda against the regime, spreading falsehoods, and disturbing public opinion Sentenced: A total of 36 years and 6 months in prison and a fine across three separate cases Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	3. Zohreh (Fatemeh) Dadras Women’s Rights Activist Charges: Forming a group to disrupt national security, assembly and collusion against national security Sentenced: 9 years, 6 months, and 2 days in prison Place of imprisonment: Lakan Prison, Rasht
	4. Maryam Akbari Monfared Civil Rights Activist Charges: Propaganda against the regime, assembly, and collusion against national security Sentenced: 2 years in prison Place of imprisonment: Qarchak Prison, Varamin
	5. Zartosht Ahmadi Ragheb Civil Rights Activist Charges: Propaganda against the regime, assembly and collusion to commit crimes against internal and external security Sentenced: A total of 6 years and 8 months in prison, along with social deprivations and exile across two separate cases Place of imprisonment: Ghezel Hesar Prison, Karaj
	6. Mohammadi Najafi Civil Rights Activist Charges: Sending audio files from Arak Prison supporting 2022 nationwide protests, spreading falsehoods, propaganda against the regime, insulting the Supreme Leader of Iran Sentenced: More than 21 years in prison across at least five separate cases Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	7. Reyhaneh Ansari-Nejad Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Assembly and collusion against national security Sentenced: 4 years in prison and social deprivations Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	8. Payam Vali Baha’is Civil Rights Activist Charges: Collaboration with hostile governments, inciting people to war and violence, propaganda against the regime Sentenced: A total of 11 years and 5 months in prison, along with social deprivations and exile across three separate cases Place of imprisonment: Central Prison of Karaj
	9. Mohammad Davari Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Insulting the Supreme Leader and propaganda against the regime in favor of opposition groups on social media Sentenced: 4 years and 6 months in prison, social deprivations, and exile Place of imprisonment: Adelabad Prison, Shiraz
	10. Hashem Khastar Civil Rights Activist Charges: Insulting the founder of the Islamic Republic, blasphemy, insulting the Supreme Leader, disturbing public opinion, collaborating with foreign media, participating in illegal gatherings, propaganda against the regime Sentenced: A total of 18 years and 6 months in prison, along with social deprivations and exile across two separate cases Place of imprisonment: Vakilabad Prison, Mashhad
	11. Sarvenaz Ahmadi Children’s Rights Activist Charges: Assembly and collusion to disrupt national security, propaganda against the regime Sentenced: 3 years and 6 months in prison Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	12. Anisha Asadollahi Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Assembly and collusion against national security, propaganda against the regime Sentenced: 5 years and 8 months in prison Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	13. Raheleh Rahemipour Civil Rights Activist Charges: Assembly and collusion against national security, propaganda against the regime Sentenced: 6 years in prison Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	14. Esmail Gerami Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Propaganda against the regime through participation in pensioners’ protests Sentenced: A total of 1 year in prison and a fine across two separate cases Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	15. Mehran Raoof Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Participating in managing an illegal group, propaganda against the regime Sentenced: 7 years and 6 months in prison Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	16. Ebrahim Madadi Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Assembly and collusion to act against national security, disrupting public order through participation in illegal gatherings Sentenced: 1 year in prison Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	17. Davood Razavi Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Assembly and collusion against national security Sentenced: 5 years in prison and social deprivations Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	18. Mohammad Nourizad Civil Rights Activist Charges: Sending an audio file outside prison, disturbing public order, spreading falsehoods, insulting the founder of the Islamic Republic, insulting sanctities, insulting the Supreme Leader, disturbing public opinion, collaboration with foreign media, participating in illegal gatherings, propaganda against the regime, and damaging the office furniture of a prison ward chief Sentenced: A total of 28 years and 9 months in prison, 148 lashes, and exile across six separate cases Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	19. Ahmadreza Haeri Civil Rights Activist Charges: Assembly and collusion to commit crimes against national security, propaganda against the regime, and spreading falsehoods Sentenced: A total of 6 years and 3 months in prison across two separate cases Place of imprisonment: Ghezel Hesar Prison, Karaj
	20. Othman Esmaeili Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Propaganda against the regime, membership in one of opposition groups Sentenced: 1 year and 4 months in prison Place of imprisonment: Saqqez Prison
	21. Reza (Gholamreza) Aghdasi Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Propaganda against the regime, assembly, and collusion to commit crimes against national security Sentenced: 4 years and 3 months in prison Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	22. Asghar Amirzadegan Teachers’ Union Activist Charges: Assembly and collusion to commit crimes against national security Sentenced: A total of 3 years in prison across two separate cases Place of imprisonment: Firouzabad Prison
	23. Rasoul Bodaghi Teachers’ Union Activist Charges: Assembly and collusion, propaganda against the regime Sentenced: A total of 10 years and 6 months in prison and social deprivations across two separate cases Latest Case Status: A retrial on part of his sentence (5 years and 6 months) was accepted by the Supreme Court in 2022 Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	24. Nasrin Hasani Journalist & Human Rights Activist Charges: Spreading falsehoods, propaganda against the regime via posting photos, videos, and content on social media Sentenced: A total of 1 year and 7 months in prison and fines across two separate cases Place of imprisonment: Bojnurd Prison
	25. Narges Mansouri Civil Rights Activist Charges: Assembly and collusion against national security, propaganda against the regime Sentenced: 9 years in prison Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	26. Atena Farghadani Cartoonist & Civil Rights Activist Charges: Blasphemy, propaganda against the regime Sentenced: 6 years in prison Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	27. Masoumeh (Akram) Akbari Civil Rights Activist Charges: Assembly and collusion to act against national security, propaganda against the regime Sentenced: 2 years in prison Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	28. Vida Rabbani Journalist Charges: Assembly and collusion against national security, propaganda against the regime, insulting sanctities, disturbing public order Sentenced: 17 years and 7 months in prison and social deprivations Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	29. Forough Saminia Women’s Rights Activist Charges: Membership in a group, assembly, and collusion to disrupt national security Sentenced: 6 years, 1 month, and 17 days in prison Place of imprisonment: Lakan Prison, Rasht
	30. Shiva Shah-Siah Women’s Rights Activist Charges: Membership in a group, assembly, and collusion to disrupt national security Sentenced: 6 years, 1 month, and 17 days in prison Place of imprisonment: Lakan Prison, Rasht
	31. Houra Nikbakht Women’s Rights Activist Charges: Propaganda against the regime, insulting the Supreme Leader of Iran Sentenced: 1 year in prison Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	32. Abbas Vahedian Shahroudi Civil Rights Activist Charges: Forming a group to act against national security, collaborating with opposition groups Sentenced: A total of 21 years in prison across two separate cases Place of imprisonment: Vakilabad Prison, Mashhad
	33. Mohammad Abolhassani Civil Rights Activist Charges: Disturbing public order, assembly and collusion, propaganda against the regime Sentenced: A total of 5 years and 3 months in prison, 12 lashes (carried out), and social deprivations across three separate cases Place of imprisonment: Choobindar Prison, Qazvin
	34. Taher Naghavi Attorney at law & Civil Rights Activist Charges: propaganda against the regime and assembly and collusion to act against national security Sentenced: 6 years and social deprivations Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	35. Maryam Jalal Hosseini Civil Rights Activist Charges: Inciting and provoking people to war and violence to disrupt national security, propaganda against the regime, insulting the Supreme Leader, and forming a group to disrupt national security Sentenced: 6 years in prison and exile Place of imprisonment: Kachouei Prison, Karaj
	36. Shakila Monfared Civil Rights Activist Charges: Membership in opposition groups, destruction of public property, disturbing public order, propaganda against the regime, and blasphemy Sentenced: A total of 15 years and 5 months in prison, 10 lashes, social deprivations, and exile across four separate cases Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	37. Sepideh Qolian Civil Rights Activist Charges: Insulting the Supreme Leader, removing hijab, facilitating corruption and immorality, and insisting on repeating the mentioned offenses during court sessions Sentenced: 3 years and 3 months in prison and social deprivations Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	38. Fatemeh (Mojgan) Tadrisi Civil Rights Activist Charges: Inciting and provoking people to war and violence to disrupt national security, propaganda against the regime, insulting the Supreme Leader, and forming a group to disrupt national security Sentenced: 6 years in prison and exile Place of imprisonment: Kachooie Prison, Karaj
	39. Hooman Taheri Women’s Rights Activist Charges: Propaganda against the regime Sentenced: 1 year in prison Place of imprisonment: Lakan Prison, Rasht
	40. Peyman Farhangian Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Propaganda against the regime, forming a group to disrupt public order Sentenced: A total of 11 years in prison and social deprivations across two separate cases Place of imprisonment: Azbaram Prison, Lahijan
	41. Maziar Seyednejad Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Membership in communist groups, propaganda against the regime Sentenced: 3 years in prison and social deprivations Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	42. Azadeh Chavoshian Women’s Rights Activist Charges: Membership in a group, assembly, and collusion to disrupt national security Sentenced: 6 years, 1 month, and 17 days in prison Place of imprisonment: Lakan Prison, Rasht
	43. Sharifeh Mohammadi Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Propaganda against the regime, acting against national security, and armed rebellion (“Baghi”) through membership in opposition groups Sentenced: Death sentence overturned by the Supreme Court; case referred for retrial Place of imprisonment: Lakan Prison, Rasht
	44. Morteza Seydi Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Forming a labor union to disrupt national security Sentenced: 2 years in prison Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	45. Nasrollah Amirloo Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Forming a labor union to disrupt national security Sentenced: 2 years in prison Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	46. Mohammad Habibi Teacher Union Activist Charges: Propaganda against the regime Sentenced: 6 months and 1 day in prison Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	47. Maryam Derisi Civil Rights Activist Charges: Disturbing public order, propaganda against the regime through online posts, removing hijab, and insulting the Supreme Leader Sentenced: A total of 2 years, 10 months, and 17 days in prison across three separate cases Place of imprisonment: Adelabad Prison, Shiraz
	48. Nahid Shirpisheh Civil Rights Activist Charges: Assembly, collusion, and propaganda against the regime Sentenced: 5 years in prison Place of imprisonment: Zanjan Prison
	49. Farhad Sheikhi Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Propaganda against the regime Sentenced: 8 months in prison, social deprivations, and exile Place of imprisonment: Central Prison of Karaj
	50. Nahid Khodajoo Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Assembly and collusion to act against national security, disturbing public order Sentenced: 6 years in prison and 74 lashes Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	51. Motahareh Goonehi Student Activist Charges: Propaganda against the regime in favor of anti-regime media Sentenced: 1 year in prison, temporary ban from education, and transfer to Ardabil University of Medical Sciences Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	52. Saeideh Shafiei Journalist & Human Rights Activist Charges: Propaganda against the regime, assembly, and collusion against national security Sentenced: 3 years and 6 months in prison and social deprivations Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	53. Nasrin Javadi (A’zam Khezri Javadi) Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Assembly and collusion to act against national security Sentenced: 5 years in prison Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	54. Khosrow Alikurdi Attorney at law & Civil Rights Activist Charges: Propaganda in favor of opposition groups, spreading falsehoods on the Internet, and failure to maintain confidentiality Sentenced: 1 year in prison, fines, social deprivations, exile, and prohibition from practicing law across two separate cases Place of imprisonment: Vakilabad Prison, Mashhad (open detention)
	55. Armita Pavir Civil Rights Activist Charges: Insulting the Supreme Leader, propaganda against the regime Sentenced: 1 year, 10 months, and 17 days in prison Place of imprisonment: Tabriz Prison
	56. Morteza Parvin Civil Rights Activist (Turk-Azerbaijani Activist) Charges: Propaganda against the regime, assembly, and collusion to disrupt national security Sentenced: 6 years in prison Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	57. Foad Fathi Workers’ Rights Advocate Charges: Membership in opposition groups, acting against national security, propaganda against the regime Sentenced: 4 years in prison Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	58. Abdolrasoul Mortazavi Civil Rights Activist Charges: Insulting the founder of the Islamic Republic, insulting sanctities, insulting the Supreme Leader, disturbing public opinion, collaboration with foreign media, participating in illegal gatherings, propaganda against the regime, and disturbing public order Sentenced: A total of 30 years in prison across three separate cases; maximum sentence is 15 years Place of imprisonment: Dastgerd Prison, Isfahan
	59. Samaneh Asghari Student Activist Charges: Propaganda against the regime Sentenced: 1 year in prison Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison
	60. Mohammad-Ali Zahmatkesh Teachers’ Union Activist Charges: Membership in anti-regime online groups, propaganda against the regime, assembly, and collusion to act against national security Sentenced: 2 years in prison Place of imprisonment: Adelabad Prison, Shiraz
	61. Javad La’al Mohammadi Civil Rights Activist Charges: Giving interviews to foreign media, membership in groups Sentenced: A total of 23 years in prison across three separate cases Place of imprisonment: Vakilabad Prison, Mashhad
	62. Arsham Rezaie Civil Rights Activist Charges: Assembly and collusion to commit crimes against national security, propaganda against the regime, inciting people to conflict and bloodshed, illicit financial gains, spreading falsehoods Sentenced: A total of 15 years in prison, fines, 50 lashes, and social deprivations across two separate cases Place of imprisonment: Ghezel Hesar Prison, Karaj
	63. Saman Ostovar Children’s Rights Activist Charges: Educational and propaganda activities against Islamic law, insulting against Islamic law, forming a group and leading individuals to disrupt national security by promoting Baha’i teachings to children, engaging in educational activities incompatible with Islamic law through kindergartens, and propaganda against Islamic law through coaching Sentenced: 5 years in prison, fines, and social deprivations Place of imprisonment: Central Prison of Karaj
	64. Zahra Dadras Women’s Rights Activist Charges: Membership in a group, assembly, and collusion to disrupt national security Sentenced: 6 years, 1 month, and 17 days in prison Place of imprisonment: Lakan Prison, Rasht
	65. Yashar Tabrizi Civil Rights Activist Charges: Unknown Sentenced: Currently in temporary detention; trial has not been held Place of imprisonment: Unknown

List of Activists Currently on Leave Due to Suspension of Sentence, Bail, and Other Factors:

	1. Narges Mohammadi Nobel Peace Prize laureate & Human Rights Activist Charges: Propaganda against the Islamic Republic of Iran by publishing a statement (the anti-execution statement), hunger strike in the prison office, defying prison authorities (to end the protest hunger strike), damaging glass windows, slander and assault, confrontation with a guard, defiance, and propaganda against the regime Sentenced: A total of 15 years and 6 months in prison, 74 lashes, exile, and social deprivations across seven separate cases Place of imprisonment: Evin Prison (currently on leave due to suspension of sentence)
	2. Amirsalar Davoudi Attorney at law & Human Rights Activist Charges: Insulting the Supreme Leader, disturbing public opinion, and forming an anti-security group Sentenced: 14 years in prison Place of imprisonment: Following the acceptance of his case review request in the Supreme Court and its referral for retrial, his sentence has been suspended
	3. Atefeh Rangriz Women’s Rights Activist Charges: Forming a Telegram group (named Gago Translation), propaganda against the regime, collaboration and membership in opposition groups Sentenced: 10 years and 3 months in prison and social deprivations Place of imprisonment: Shahrud Prison (currently on medical leave)
	4. Jelveh Javaheri Women’s Rights Activist Charges: Propaganda against the regime Sentenced: 1 year in prison Place of imprisonment: Due to a request for a case review in the Supreme Court, her sentence has been temporarily suspended, and she has been released on bail
	5. Yasamin Hashdari Women’s Rights Activist Charges: Membership in a group, assembly, and collusion with the intent to disrupt national security Sentenced: 6 years, 1 month, and 17 days in prison Place of imprisonment: Lakan Prison, Rasht (currently on medical leave)
	6. Sarah Jahani Women’s Rights Activist Charges: Membership in a group, assembly, and collusion with the intent to disrupt national security Sentenced: 6 years, 1 month, and 17 days in prison Place of imprisonment: Lakan Prison, Rasht (currently on medical leave)
	7. Matin Yazdani Women’s Rights Activist Charges: Membership in a group, assembly, and collusion with the intent to disrupt national security Sentenced: 6 years, 1 month, and 17 days in prison Place of imprisonment: Lakan Prison, Rasht (currently on leave)
	8. Negin Rezaie Women’s Rights Activist Charges: Membership in a group, assembly, and collusion with the intent to disrupt national security Sentenced: 6 years, 1 month, and 17 days in prison Place of imprisonment: Lakan Prison, Rasht (currently on leave)
	9. Nasim Soltanbeigi Journalist & Human Rights Activist Charges: Propaganda against the regime, assembly, and collusion against national security Sentenced: 3 years and 6 months in prison and social deprivations Place of imprisonment: Currently on leave due to suspension of sentence

The names listed in this report represent only a small glimpse of the suffering and resilience of human rights defenders and civil activists in Iran, who have paid a heavy price for standing firm on humanitarian principles.

These imprisoned defenders embody the universal values of human rights, and the global community must not remain silent or indifferent to their plight. On this day, we call upon Iranian authorities and the international community to:

1. Immediately and unconditionally release all human rights defenders and political prisoners detained solely for exercising their lawful and legitimate rights.

2. End the suppression of freedom of expression, assembly, and civil activism, which are fundamental human rights and integral to Iran’s international obligations.

3. Establish transparent and independent mechanisms to monitor the human rights situation in Iran, with the involvement of credible international institutions.

Finally, we urge all human rights organizations, civil activists, and citizens worldwide to stand in solidarity and support, amplifying the voices of these silenced prisoners to the global stage. Only through raising awareness and exerting effective pressure can we achieve lasting and meaningful change.

Ghezel Hesar Prison: Six Inmates Transferred to Solitary Confinement for Execution

Posted on December 9, 2024 by . .

Executions, News

Ghezel Hesar prison, Karaj, Qezel Hesar Prison

Today, December 9, 2024, six inmates in Ghezel Hesar Prison in Karaj, who were previously sentenced to death on drug-related charges, were transferred to solitary confinement in preparation for their executions.

The transfer was carried out to prepare for the implementation of their death sentences. Among the six inmates is a citizen of Afghanistan.

Further details, including the identities of the prisoners, are under investigation by HRANA.

According to data gathered by the Department of Statistics and Publication of Human Rights Activists, Ghezel Hesar Prison in Karaj witnessed the highest number of executions in 2023, with Zahedan Prison following closely behind. For a comprehensive examination of the details and statistics surrounding the executions in Iran, refer to HRANA’s report.

Baha’i Citizen Arshia Behin-Ayin Arrested in Isfahan

Posted on December 9, 2024December 9, 2024 by . .

News, Religious Minorities

Arshia Behin-Ayin, HRANA, Isfahan, ارشیا بهین آیین

On December 6, 2024, Arshia Behin-Ayin, a 36-year-old Baha’i citizen from Isfahan, was arrested by security forces and transferred to Dastgerd Prison.

According to a source who spoke to HRANA, the arrest occurred violently during a Baha’i ceremony on the outskirts of Isfahan. Agents from the Isfahan Intelligence Department, equipped with cameras and microphones, disrupted the gathering, used intimidation and physical force, and confiscated the mobile phones of attendees.

The source also reported that before being removed from the scene, Mr. Behin-Ayin was tied to a pole in an open area by the agents, further escalating the intimidation.

This incident marks another instance of the systemic targeting of Baha’i citizens in Iran for their religious beliefs. Baha’is are subjected to violations of their religious rights, comprising 82% of reports on infringements against religious minorities, according to HRA’s 2023 annual report.

Ayoub Damavandi Sentenced to Over 5 Years in Prison

Posted on December 9, 2024 by . .

Freedom of Expression, News

Ayoub Damavandi, Mahabad, Piranshahr, ایوب دماوندی

Ayoub Damavandi, a resident of Piranshahr County, has been sentenced to five years and 15 days in prison by the Revolutionary Court of Mahabad, according to Kurdpa.

The report states that Branch 1 of the Revolutionary Court of Mahabad, presided over by Judge Doosti, recently sentenced Mr. Damavandi to five years and 15 days in prison on charges of espionage.

Mr. Damavandi was arrested at his home in Piranshahr on August 1, 2023, by security forces without a judicial warrant and transferred to one of the IRGC Intelligence detention facilities in Urmia.

Ayoub Damavandi, a resident of a village in Piranshahr County, was eventually transferred to Naghadeh Prison one month later after the completion of interrogation procedures.

Atena Farghadani Sentenced to 8 Months in Prison on Appeal

Posted on December 9, 2024 by . .

Freedom of Expression, News, Prisoners

Atena Farghadani, Iman Afshari, Qarchak Prison, Varamin, آتنا فرقدانی

The six-year prison sentence of Atena Farghadani, a prominent cartoonist and civil activist detained in Evin Prison, has been reduced to eight months following an appeals court ruling.

A social media page associated with Ms. Farghadani announced that the appeals court had acquitted her of the charge of blasphemy but sentenced her to eight months in prison for creating a cartoon titled “Class Inequality.”

Earlier, Tehran’s Revolutionary Court Branch 26, presided over by Judge Iman Afshari, had sentenced her to five years for insulting sanctities and one year for propaganda against the regime.

Ms. Farghadani declined to participate in court sessions related to these charges.

On the evening of Saturday, April 13, 2024, she staged a protest by attempting to display one of her paintings on a wall in Tehran’s Pasteur Street. Security forces intervened violently during the act, arresting her and transferring her to Evin Prison.

Earlier, on June 7, 2023, she was detained after reporting to the Evin Prosecutor’s Office and subsequently transferred to Qarchak Prison in Varamin. Days later, the First Branch of the Evin Prosecutor’s Office charged her with disrupting public order. She was eventually released on bail.

Atena Farghadani has faced multiple arrests and convictions in the past due to her activism and artistic work.

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Kamal Jafari Yazdi Arrested by Ministry of Intelligence in Mashhad

Today, December 10, Kamal Jafari Yazdi, a political defendant, was arrested by agents of the Ministry of Intelligence in Mashhad and transferred to an undisclosed location.

Heydar Fattahi Sentenced to 37 Months in Prison

Heydar Fattahi, a resident of Marivan, has been sentenced to 37 months in prison by the Revolutionary Court of Marivan.

Three Prisoners Executed in Zahedan Prison for Drug-Related Charges

On December 9, 2024, three prisoners previously sentenced to death on drug-related charges were executed in Zahedan Prison.

Court of Appeals Issues Sentences for 15 Baháʼí Citizens in Isfahan Province

The Court of Appeals of Isfahan Province has issued the sentences of 15 Baháʼí citizens residing in Baharestan, Isfahan Province.

Appeals Court Upholds One-Year Prison Sentence for Attorney Mehdi Karimi Farsi

The one-year prison sentence for Seyed Mehdi Karimi Farsi, a senior attorney and member of the Central Bar Association, has been upheld by Branch 36 of the Tehran Court of Appeals. This decision confirms the initial ruling by the lower court.

Human Rights Day: Honoring Imprisoned Iranian Civil Activists and the Struggle for Freedom and Justice

Ghezel Hesar Prison: Six Inmates Transferred to Solitary Confinement for Execution

Today, December 9, 2024, six inmates in Ghezel Hesar Prison in Karaj, who were previously sentenced to death on drug-related charges, were transferred to solitary confinement in preparation for their executions.

Baha’i Citizen Arshia Behin-Ayin Arrested in Isfahan

On December 6, 2024, Arshia Behin-Ayin, a 36-year-old Baha’i citizen from Isfahan, was arrested by security forces and transferred to Dastgerd Prison.

Ayoub Damavandi Sentenced to Over 5 Years in Prison

Ayoub Damavandi, a resident of Piranshahr County, has been sentenced to five years and 15 days in prison by the Revolutionary Court of Mahabad, according to Kurdpa.

Atena Farghadani Sentenced to 8 Months in Prison on Appeal

The six-year prison sentence of Atena Farghadani, a prominent cartoonist and civil activist detained in Evin Prison, has been reduced to eight months following an appeals court ruling.

Today, December 10, Kamal Jafari Yazdi, a political defendant, was arrested by agents of the Ministry of Intelligence in Mashhad and transferred to an undisclosed location.

Heydar Fattahi, a resident of Marivan, has been sentenced to 37 months in prison by the Revolutionary Court of Marivan.

On December 9, 2024, three prisoners previously sentenced to death on drug-related charges were executed in Zahedan Prison.

The Court of Appeals of Isfahan Province has issued the sentences of 15 Baháʼí citizens residing in Baharestan, Isfahan Province.

The one-year prison sentence for Seyed Mehdi Karimi Farsi, a senior attorney and member of the Central Bar Association, has been upheld by Branch 36 of the Tehran Court of Appeals. This decision confirms the initial ruling by the lower court.

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Today, December 9, 2024, six inmates in Ghezel Hesar Prison in Karaj, who were previously sentenced to death on drug-related charges, were transferred to solitary confinement in preparation for their executions.

On December 6, 2024, Arshia Behin-Ayin, a 36-year-old Baha’i citizen from Isfahan, was arrested by security forces and transferred to Dastgerd Prison.

Ayoub Damavandi, a resident of Piranshahr County, has been sentenced to five years and 15 days in prison by the Revolutionary Court of Mahabad, according to Kurdpa.

The six-year prison sentence of Atena Farghadani, a prominent cartoonist and civil activist detained in Evin Prison, has been reduced to eight months following an appeals court ruling.