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Overview of 21 Years of Security Crackdown on Dual and Foreign Nationals

Posted on June 5, 2024June 13, 2024 by . .

Ahmadreza Djalali, dual nationals, Farhad Mohammad Shamami*, Farid Safari, Hassan Rostamgari Majd, Hatem Ozdemir, HRANA, Jamshid Sharmahd, Johan Flodorus, Louis Arno, Nahid Taghavi, Olivier Vandecasteele, Saeed Azizi, Shaker Baghi

Human Rights Activists in Iran have documented the arrest of 101 individuals with foreign or dual citizenship by Iranian security agencies since 2003. This analysis reveals significant flaws in the judicial system, highlighted by routine arbitrary detentions and the absence of fair legal processes.

Iran’s regime has consistently targeted dual and foreign nationals for political leverage, often accusing them of espionage or threatening national security, typically without credible evidence. HRANA has noted numerous instances of unfair trials, where proceedings occur in languages the accused do not understand, the denial of private legal representation, disproportionate sentencing, prolonged solitary confinement, and coercive interrogations leading to forced and sometimes televised confessions.

The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention has recognized that some detainees are specifically targeted due to their nationality or social status. Despite statements from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in November 2021 promising safety for dual nationals visiting Iran, the continued detentions and the regime’s refusal to release current detainees convey a starkly opposite and discouraging reality. This inconsistency perpetuates fear and insecurity among Iranians holding dual citizenship.

There is a pressing need for sustained international pressure to secure the release of all detained dual and foreign nationals. The listed individuals, predominantly detained by the IRGC intelligence since 2003, include Americans, British, and Canadians, with some unfortunately never returning home, facing execution or death in custody. Meanwhile, others still await critical interventions.

Noteworthy Points:

The actual number of detentions may exceed what has been reported.
The number of detained dual citizens significantly surpasses that of foreign nationals, indicating a profound mistrust in Iran’s assurances to dual citizens contemplating a return to their homeland.

1. Saeed Abedini
Date of Arrest: October 2012 (Mehr 1391) Date of Release: Late January 2016 (Dey 1394) Citizenship: Iranian – American Charges: Forming house churches to disrupt national security and colluding to commit a crime Sentence: 8 years in prison
2. Vahik Abrahamian
Date of Arrest: February 20, 2010 (Esfand 1388) Date of Release: February 2011 (Esfand 1389) Citizenship: Iranian – Dutch Charges: Promoting Christianity Sentence: Imprisoned for one year in Evin Prison and eventually released and returned to the Netherlands.
3. Afarin Neysari
Date of Arrest: July 20, 2016 (Tir 1395) Date of Release: Late July 2018 (Tir 1397) Citizenship: Iranian – American Charges: Espionage Sentence: 16 years in prison / Released on bail of 40 billion tomans
4. Karan Vafadari
Date of Arrest: July 20, 2016 (Tir 1395) Date of Release: Late July 2018 (Tir 1397) Citizenship: Iranian – American Charges: Espionage Sentence: 27 years in prison / Released on bail of 40 billion tomans
5. Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe
Date of Arrest: March 2016 (Farvardin 1395) Date of Release: Mid-March 2021 (Esfand 1399) for the first case, March 25, 2022 (Esfand 25, 1400) for the second case Citizenship: Iranian – British Charges: First case: Assembly and collusion against national security / Second case: Propaganda activities against the regime Sentence: First case: 5 years in prison, Second case: 1 year in prison and 1-year travel ban
6. Afshin Shafiee
Date of Arrest: December 17, 2012 (Azar 26, 1391) Date of Release: January 2013 (Dey 1391) Citizenship: Iranian – Norwegian Charges: – Sentence: Released on bail and left Iran.
7. Jason Rezaian
Date of Arrest: July 22, 2014 (Tir 31, 1393) Date of Release: January 2016 (Dey 1394) Citizenship: Iranian – American Charges: Espionage and actions against national security Sentence: Exchanged with several Iranian-American prisoners in the US.
8. Amir Mirza Hekmati
Date of Arrest: December 7, 2011 (Azar 16, 1390) Date of Release: January 2016 (Dey 1394) Citizenship: Iranian – American Charges: Espionage Sentence: Initially sentenced to death, later commuted to ten years in prison / Exchanged with several Iranian-American prisoners in the US.
9. Nossratollah (Farzad) Khosravi-Roodsari
Date of Arrest: 2014 (1393) Date of Release: January 2016 (Dey 1394) Citizenship: Iranian – American Charges: – Sentence: Exchanged with several Iranian-American prisoners in the US.
10. Sonia Boubnovaich
Date of Arrest: December 13, 2015 (Azar 22, 1394) Date of Release: January 2016 (Dey 1394) Citizenship: Croatian – Swedish resident of Iran Charges: – Sentence: Released on bail.
11. Reza Islami
Date of Arrest: May 10, 2020 (Ordibehesht 21, 1399) Date of Release: Temporarily released on March 20, 2022 (Esfand 29, 1400) and later conditionally freed after serving one-third of his sentence, confirmed by the Tehran Appeals Court. Citizenship: Iranian – Canadian Charges: Collaboration with hostile foreign governments (USA) against the Islamic Republic through participation in rule of law training courses in the Czech Republic Sentence: Seven years in prison, barred from teaching, and a travel ban
12. Homa Hoodfar
Date of Arrest: June 6, 2016 (Khordad 17, 1395) Date of Release: October 2016 (Mehr 1395) Citizenship: Iranian – Canadian Charges: – Sentence: –
13. Xiyue Wang
Date of Arrest: Summer 2016 (1395) Date of Release: November 2019 (Aban 1398) Citizenship: Chinese – American Charges: Espionage Sentence: 10 years in prison / Exchanged with an Iranian-American prisoner in the US.
14. (First Name Unknown) Tavakoli
Date of Arrest: – Date of Release: – Citizenship: Dual nationality but details unknown Charges: Espionage Sentence: 8 years and 6 months in prison
15. Hassan Rostamgari Majd*
Date of Arrest: October 27, 2014 (Aban 5, 1393) Date of Release: Still imprisoned in Urmia Prison Citizenship: Turkish Charges: First case: Actions against national security through collaboration with opposition groups / Second case: Insulting religious sanctities and propaganda against the regime / Third case: Rioting in prison and fighting with officers / Fourth case: Escape during prison leave from his 2010 conviction Sentence: First case: 15 years in prison and revocation of Iranian citizenship / Second case: 2 years in prison / Third case: 1 year in prison / Fourth case: 4 months in prison
16. Reza (Robin) Shahini
Date of Arrest: July 15, 2016 (Tir 25, 1395) Date of Release: March 2017 (Farvardin 1396) Citizenship: Iranian – American Charges: “Collaboration with Voice of America as part of the hostile US government and participation in related programs, propaganda against the Islamic Republic of Iran, and in favor of opposition groups and organizations, membership in opposition groups including monarchists, inciting and provoking people to disrupt national security, and insulting Imam Khomeini and Ayatollah Khamenei Sentence: 18 years in prison, with only the “most severe punishment” of 9 years enforceable under Article 134 / Released on bail of 200 million tomans
17. Nahid Taghavi*
Date of Arrest: October 16, 2020 (Mehr 25, 1399) Date of Release: Still imprisoned in Evin Prison Citizenship: Iranian – German Charges: Participation in managing an illegal group and propaganda against the regime Sentence: 10 years and 8 months in prison
18. Benjamin Brière
Date of Arrest: June 2020 (Khordad 1399) Date of Release: May 2023 (Ordibehesht 1402) Citizenship: French Charges: Propaganda against the regime and espionage Sentence: 8 years and 8 months in prison / Released through “engagement between Iran and France.”
19. Jamshid Sharmahd*
Date of Arrest: August 2020 (Mordad 1399) Date of Release: Still imprisoned in an undisclosed location Citizenship: Iranian – German Charges: Corruption on earth through leadership of an opposition group, planning and leading the bombing of the Hosseiniyeh in Shiraz Sentence: Death penalty confirmed by the Supreme Court
20. Kameel Ahmadi
Date of Arrest: August 11, 2019 (Mordad 20, 1398) Date of Release: November 18, 2019 (Aban 27, 1398) Citizenship: Iranian – British Charges: “Illegally acquiring property through collaboration and implementing projects for overthrowing institutions.” Sentence: 9 years in prison and a fine of 600,000 euros
21. Emad Shargi
Date of Arrest: Autumn 2020 (1399) Date of Release: September 2023 (Shahrivar 1402) Citizenship: Iranian – American Charges: Espionage and gathering military information Sentence: 10 years in prison / Released in a prisoner exchange between Iran and the US.
22. Bahareh Amid (Emad Shargi’s wife)
Date of Arrest: March 2018 (Farvardin 1397) Date of Release: The same year (probably short-term) Citizenship: Iranian – American Charges: – Sentence: –
23. Fariba Adelkhah
Date of Arrest: June 6, 2019 (Khordad 17, 1398) Date of Release: March 12, 2023 (Esfand 22, 1401) Citizenship: Iranian – French Charges: Propaganda against the regime and assembly and collusion against national security Sentence: 6 years in prison / Released under a general amnesty directive from Evin Prison
24. Siamak Namazi
Date of Arrest: October 2015 (Mehr 1394) Date of Release: September 2023 (Shahrivar 1402) Citizenship: Iranian – American Charges: Collaboration with the hostile US government Sentence: 10 years in prison / Released in a prisoner exchange between Iran and the US.
25. Baquer Namazi
Date of Arrest: February 2016 (Esfand 1394) Date of Release: Early 2019 (1398) due to medical treatment Citizenship: Iranian – American Charges: Collaboration with the hostile US government Sentence: 10 years in prison
26. Maymand Hosseini-Chavoushi
Date of Arrest: November 2018 (Aban 1397) Date of Release: Early February 2019 (Bahman 1397) Citizenship: Iranian – Australian Charges: Collaboration with foreign governments and assembly and collusion against national security through research on population control Sentence: 5 years
27. Ahmadreza Djalali*
Date of Arrest: May 2016 (Ordibehesht 1395) Date of Release: Still imprisoned in Evin Prison Citizenship: Iranian – Swedish Charges: Espionage Sentence: Death penalty confirmed by the Supreme Court
28. Nizar Zakka
Date of Arrest: 2015 (1394) Date of Release: June 11, 2019 (Khordad 21, 1398) Citizenship: Lebanese – American Charges: Espionage and collaboration with a hostile government Sentence: 10 years in prison and a fine of $4.2 million
29. Anousheh Ashouri
Date of Arrest: 2017 (1396) Date of Release: March 16, 2022 (Esfand 25, 1400) Citizenship: Iranian – British Charges: Espionage for Israel and illegal acquisition of funds Sentence: 12 years in prison and a fine of €33,000
30. Hamid Ghassemi-Shall
Date of Arrest: 2008 (1387) Date of Release: October 2013 (Mehr 1392) Citizenship: Iranian – Canadian Charges: Initially espionage, later revised to assembly and collusion against national security Sentence: Initially sentenced to death, later reduced to 5 years in prison
31. Roya Saberi Nejad-Nobakht
Date of Arrest: September 28, 2013 (Mehr 6, 1392) Date of Release: – Citizenship: Iranian – British Charges: Insulting religious sanctities and insulting the heads of the three branches of government Sentence: 4 years in prison
32. Kylie Moore-Gilbert
Date of Arrest: Autumn 2018 (1397) Date of Release: November 25, 2020 (Azar 5, 1399) Citizenship: Australian Charges: Endangering Iran’s national security Sentence: 10 years in prison
33. Masoud Karami
Date of Arrest: February 14, 2012 (Bahman 25, 1390) Date of Release: – Citizenship: Iranian – Norwegian Charges: – Sentence: –
34. Abbas Edalat
Date of Arrest: April 14, 2018 (Farvardin 26, 1397) Date of Release: January 2019 (Dey 1397) Citizenship: Iranian – British Charges: – Sentence: –
35. Morad Tahbaz
Date of Arrest: January 24, 2018 (Bahman 4, 1396) Date of Release: September 2023 (Shahrivar 1402) Citizenship: Iranian – American Charges: Espionage Sentence: 10 years in prison / Released in a prisoner exchange between Iran and the US.
36. Kavous Seyed-Emami
Date of Arrest: February 2018 (Bahman 1396) Date of Release: Died in prison Citizenship: Iranian – Canadian Charges: Espionage Sentence: –
37. Abdolrasoul Dorri Esfahani
Date of Arrest: August 2016 (Mordad 1395) Date of Release: – Citizenship: Iranian – Canadian Charges: Espionage – collaboration with British intelligence service Sentence: 5 years in prison
38. Haleh Esfandiari
Date of Arrest: May 8, 2007 (Ordibehesht 18, 1386) Date of Release: August 21, 2007 (Mordad 30, 1386) Citizenship: Iranian – American Charges: Actions against national security and soft overthrow Sentence: Released on bail
39. Akbar Lakestani
Date of Arrest: September 28, 2019 (Mehr 6, 1398) Date of Release: November 13, 2019 (Aban 22, 1398) Citizenship: Iranian – American Charges: Propaganda against the regime Sentence: Released on bail and left the country
40. Sarah Shourd
Date of Arrest: July 30, 2009 (Mordad 8, 1388) Date of Release: September 14, 2010 (Shahrivar 23, 1389) Citizenship: American Charges: Illegal entry into Iran and espionage Sentence: Released on bail and left the country
41. Josh Fattal
Date of Arrest: September 14, 2010 (Shahrivar 23, 1389) Date of Release: December 27, 2011 (Dey 6, 1390) Citizenship: American Charges: Illegal entry into Iran and espionage Sentence: 8 years in prison
42. Shane Bauer
Date of Arrest: September 14, 2010 (Shahrivar 23, 1389) Date of Release: December 27, 2011 (Dey 6, 1390) Citizenship: American Charges: Illegal entry into Iran and espionage Sentence: 8 years in prison
43. Michael White
Date of Arrest: July 1, 2018 (Tir 10, 1397) Date of Release: June 4, 2020 (Khordad 15, 1399) Citizenship: American Charges: Insulting the Supreme Leader and publishing a private photo Sentence: 10 years in prison
44. Maziar Bahari
Date of Arrest: June 1, 2009 (Khordad 11, 1388) Date of Release: October 13, 2009 (Mehr 21, 1388) Citizenship: Iranian – Canadian Charges: Assembly and collusion with the intent to commit crimes against national security, collecting and keeping confidential and classified documents, propaganda against the Islamic Republic of Iran, insulting the Supreme Leader, insulting the President, and disrupting public order Sentence: 13 years and 6 months in prison and 74 lashes
45. Roxana Saberi
Date of Arrest: February 1, 2009 (Bahman 12, 1387) Date of Release: May 11, 2009 (Ordibehesht 21, 1388) Citizenship: American Charges: Espionage and collecting documents against the Islamic Republic Sentence: 2 years suspended prison sentence
46. Zahra Kazemi
Date of Arrest: June 24, 2003 (Tir 3, 1382) Date of Release: Died during detention Citizenship: Iranian – Canadian Charges: Photographing prohibited areas Sentence: –
47. Matthew Trevithick
Date of Arrest: December 8, 2015 (Azar 17, 1394) Date of Release: January 2016 (Dey 1394) Citizenship: American Charges: Espionage Sentence: –
48. Robert Levinson
Date of Arrest: February 2007 (Esfand 1385) Date of Release: Disappeared Citizenship: Iranian – American Charges: – Sentence: –
49. Hossein Derakhshan
Date of Arrest: November 1, 2008 (Aban 11, 1387) Date of Release: November 19, 2013 (Aban 28, 1392) Citizenship: Iranian – Canadian Charges: Collaboration with hostile governments, propaganda against the Islamic regime, propaganda in favor of anti-regime groups, insulting religious sanctities, running and managing immoral and obscene websites Sentence: 19 years and 6 months in prison and 5 years barred from membership in parties and media activities
50. Aras Amiri
Date of Arrest: March 2018 (Esfand 1396) Date of Release: July 2021 (Tir 1400) Citizenship: Iranian – British Charges: Espionage Sentence: 10 years in prison
51-58. Seven Slovakian Citizens (Identities Unknown) – Date of Arrest: July 2013 (Tir 1392) – Date of Release: September 2013 (Shahrivar 1392) – Citizenship: Slovakian – Charges: Espionage – Sentence: –
59. Clotilde Reiss
Date of Arrest: 2009 (1388) Date of Release: August 2009 (Mordad 1388) on bail Citizenship: French Charges: Espionage Sentence: 5 years in prison, reduced to a fine upon her departure from Iran on May 16, 2016 (Ordibehesht 27, 1395)
60. Stéphanie Larbieux
Date of Arrest: November 6, 2005 (Aban 15, 1384) Date of Release: January 2007 (Dey 1385) Citizenship: French Charges: – Sentence: –
61. Donald Klein
Date of Arrest: November 6, 2005 (Aban 15, 1384) Date of Release: January 2007 (Dey 1385) Citizenship: German Charges: – Sentence: –
62. Nelly Erin-Cambron
Date of Arrest: October 21, 2018 (Mehr 29, 1397) Date of Release: February 24, 2019 (Esfand 5, 1397) Citizenship: French Charges: Signing an illegal mining contract Sentence: –
63. Kian Tajbakhsh
Date of Arrest: July 2009 (Tir 1388) Date of Release: March 12, 2010 (Esfand 22, 1388) Citizenship: Iranian – American Charges: – Sentence: 5 years in prison
64. Habib Chaab (Habib Asyoud)
Date of Arrest: November 2021 (Aban 1400) Date of Release: Executed Citizenship: Iranian – Swedish Charges: Corruption on earth through leading a group named Harakat al-Nidal
65. Rouhollah Zam
Date of Arrest: October 2019 (Mehr 1398) Date of Release: Executed Citizenship: Iranian – French Charges: “Corruption on earth, forming and managing ‘Amadnews’ and ‘Voice of the People’ channels to disrupt national security, espionage for the Israeli intelligence service through the intelligence service of a regional country, espionage for the French intelligence service, collaboration with the hostile US government against the Islamic Republic of Iran, assembly and collusion to commit crimes against internal and external national security, engaging in propaganda activities against the regime, membership and management of the ‘Saham News’ website to disrupt national security, inciting and provoking people to war and killing to disrupt national security, collecting classified information with the intent to provide it to others to disrupt national security, spreading falsehoods, inciting military personnel and individuals serving in the armed forces to rebellion, escape, surrender or failing to carry out their military duties, insulting religious sanctities, insulting the founder of the Islamic Republic and the leadership, insulting officials and agents, illicitly obtaining property, and complaints from some legal and natural persons.” Sentence: Death
66. Mostafa Azizi
Date of Arrest: February 1, 2015 (Bahman 12, 1393) Date of Release: Late April 2016 (Farvardin 1395) Citizenship: Iranian-Canadian Charges: “Assembly and collusion against national security,” “propaganda against the regime,” and “insulting the leadership” Sentence: 3 years in prison and a fine
67. Saeed Malekpour
Date of Arrest: October 2008 (Mehr 1387) Date of Release: Released before completing his sentence by leaving on bail Citizenship: Iranian-Canadian Charges: Cybercrimes (pornography) Sentence: Life imprisonment
68. Kamran Ghaderi
Date of Arrest: January 2016 (Dey 1394) Date of Release: June 2023 (Khordad 1402) / Released during a prisoner exchange with Assadollah Assadi Citizenship: Iranian-Austrian Charges: Espionage Sentence: 10 years in prison
69. Yulia Yuzik
Date of Arrest: October 3, 2019 (Mehr 11, 1398) Date of Release: October 10, 2019 (Mehr 18, 1398) Citizenship: Russian Charges: Espionage for Israel Sentence: Released after one week and left Iran
70. Mehran Raoof*
Date of Arrest: October 2020 (Mehr 1399) Date of Release: Still imprisoned in Evin Prison Citizenship: Iranian-British Charges: Participation in managing an illegal group and propaganda against the regime Sentence: 10 years and 8 months in prison
71. Saeed Azizi*
Date of Arrest: November 12, 2023 (Aban 21, 1402) Date of Release: – Citizenship: Iranian-Swedish Charges: Assembly and collusion to commit a crime Sentence: 5 years in prison
72. Shahram Namavar*
Date of Arrest: August 2023 (Mordad 1402) Date of Release: Still imprisoned in Evin Prison Citizenship: Iranian-British Charges: – Sentence: –
73. Identity Unknown*
Date of Arrest: September 16, 2023 (Shahrivar 25, 1402) Date of Release: – Citizenship: – Charges: Attempting to organize riots and sabotage Sentence: –
74. Monireh Terez Basir
Date of Arrest: November 2022 (Aban 1401) Date of Release: September 18, 2023 (Shahrivar 27, 1402) / Left Iran during a prisoner exchange Citizenship: Iranian-American Charges: Close cooperation with a European intelligence service Sentence: –
75. Bernard Phelan
Date of Arrest: October 3, 2023 (Mehr 11, 1402) Date of Release: May 2021 (Ordibehesht 1401) Citizenship: French-Irish Charges: Providing information to another country Sentence: 6 years and 6 months in prison
76. Massoud Mosahib
Date of Arrest: January 2019 (Dey 1397) Date of Release: June 2023 (Khordad 1402) Citizenship: Iranian-Austrian Charges: Collaboration with Israel and the German intelligence service Sentence: 10 years in prison / Released during a prisoner exchange with Assadollah Assadi
77. Identity Unknown*
Date of Arrest: Late May 2024 (Ordibehesht 1403) Date of Release: – Citizenship: European Charges: Organizing Satanic rituals, drinking alcohol, wearing specific Satanic symbols on clothing, head, face, and hair Sentence: –
78. Identity Unknown*
Date of Arrest: Late May 2024 (Ordibehesht 1403) Date of Release: – Citizenship: European Charges: Organizing Satanic rituals, drinking alcohol, wearing specific Satanic symbols on clothing, head, face, and hair Sentence: –
79. Identity Unknown*
Date of Arrest: Late May 2024 (Ordibehesht 1403) Date of Release: – Citizenship: European Charges: Organizing Satanic rituals, drinking alcohol, wearing specific Satanic symbols on clothing, head, face, and hair Sentence: –
80. Farhad Mohammad Shamami*
Date of Arrest: October 2022 (Mehr 1401) Date of Release: Still imprisoned in Urmia Prison Citizenship: Iraqi Charges: Membership in one of the opposition parties Sentence: 7 years in prison
81. Johan Flodorus*
Date of Arrest: May 6, 2022 (Ordibehesht 16, 1401) Date of Release: – Citizenship: Swedish Charges: Corruption on earth through actions against national security and territorial integrity of the Islamic Republic, collaborating with the Israeli occupying regime, assembly and collusion to commit a crime against national security Sentence: –
82. Santiago Sanchez
Date of Arrest: October 2023 (Mehr 1402) Date of Release: December 30, 2023 (Dey 10, 1402) Citizenship: Spanish Charges: Arrested during nationwide protests in 2021 Sentence: –
83. Identity Unknown*
Date of Arrest: December 2023 (Azar 1402) Date of Release: – Citizenship: – Charges: Espionage Sentence: –
84. Hatem Ozdemir*
Date of Arrest: June 2019 (Khordad 1398) Date of Release: Still imprisoned in Urmia Prison Citizenship: Turkish Charges: Moharebeh (waging war against God) Sentence: Death
85. Farid Safari*
Date of Arrest: April 2023 (Farvardin 1402) Date of Release: – Citizenship: Azerbaijani Charges: Espionage Sentence: 2 years in prison
86. Valida Yusifova
Date of Arrest: December 2021 (Dey 1400) Date of Release: August 2023 (Mordad 1402) Citizenship: Azerbaijani Charges: Espionage Sentence: –
87. Olivier Vandecasteele*
Date of Arrest: July 2022 (Tir 1401) Date of Release: – Citizenship: Belgian Charges: Espionage against the Islamic Republic of Iran for a foreign intelligence service, collaboration with the hostile US government, money laundering of $500,000, professional currency smuggling of $500,000, and 74 lashes Sentence: 40 years in prison and 74 lashes
88. Identity Unknown*
Date of Arrest: March 2023 (Esfand 1401) Date of Release: – Citizenship: Afghan Charges: Espionage Sentence: –
89. Ana Baneer
Date of Arrest: November 2022 (Aban 1401) Date of Release: February 25, 2023 (Esfand 6, 1401) Citizenship: Spanish Charges: – Sentence: –
90. Identity Unknown*
Date of Arrest: October 2022 (Mehr 1401) Date of Release: – Citizenship: Austrian Charges: Espionage Sentence: 7 years and 6 months in prison
91. Louis Arnaud*
Date of Arrest: September 28, 2022 (Mehr 6, 1401) Date of Release: Still imprisoned in Evin Prison Citizenship: French Charges: – Sentence: 5 years in prison
92. Identity Unknown*
Date of Arrest: December 2022 (Dey 1401) Date of Release: – Citizenship: German Charges: Photographing the Omidieh oil facilities Sentence: –
93. Alicia Piperno
Date of Arrest: Early October 2022 (Mehr 1401) Date of Release: November 2022 (Aban 1401) Citizenship: German Charges: – Sentence: –
94. Shaker Baghi*
Date of Arrest: February 2008 (Esfand 1386) Date of Release: Still imprisoned in Kashmar Prison Citizenship: Turkish Charges: Membership in one of the opposition parties Sentence: 30 years in prison and exile to Kashmar Prison
95. Identity Unknown
Date of Arrest: – Date of Release: June 2023 (Khordad 1402) Citizenship: Danish Charges: – Sentence: –
96. Identity Unknown*
Date of Arrest: Early August 2022 (Mordad 1401) Date of Release: – Citizenship: Swedish Charges: Espionage Sentence: –
97. Senor Tamara*
Date of Arrest: Autumn 2020 (1399) Date of Release: July 21, 2022 (Tir 30, 1401), released under a general amnesty directive Citizenship: Turkish Charges: Membership in one of the opposition parties Sentence: 10 years and 1 day in prison
98. Cécile Kohler*
Date of Arrest: Spring 2022 (1401) Date of Release: – Citizenship: French Charges: Organizing “riots and disorder” related to teachers’ union gatherings Sentence: –
99. Jacques Paris*
Date of Arrest: Spring 2022 (1401) Date of Release: – Citizenship: French Charges: Organizing “riots and disorder” related to teachers’ union gatherings Sentence: –
100. Mohammad Birdal*
Date of Arrest: August 21, 2021 (Mordad 30, 1400) Date of Release: Still imprisoned in Urmia Prison Citizenship: Turkish Charges: Membership in one of the opposition groups Sentence: –
101. Shahab Dalili*
Date of Arrest: 2016 (1395) Date of Release: Still imprisoned in Urmia Prison Citizenship: Iranian-American Charges: Collaboration with a hostile government Sentence: 10 years in prison
102. Sereen Curtis (Badiei)*
Date of Arrest: March 26, 2023 Date of Release: – Citizenship: Iranian-New Zealand with U.S. residency Charges: Blasphemy Sentence: –
103. Nasrin Roshan*
Date of Arrest: November 16, 2023 Date of Release: Incarcerated in Evin Prison Citizenship: Iranian-British Charges: Assembly and collusion against national security, propaganda against the regime Sentence: Three years in prison

Only individuals marked with an asterisk * are still imprisoned or under restrictions in Iran.

Three Inmates Executed in Shiraz’s Adelabad Prison

Posted on June 5, 2024 by . .

Executions, News

Adelabad Prison, Mohammad-Saeed Zohrabi, Shiraz

Three inmates convicted of drug offenses were executed in Adelabad Prison, Shiraz, on June 1, according to the Iran Human Rights Organization.

The executed inmates have been identified as Mohammad-Saeed Zohrabi, Hassan Nematollahi, and 30-year-old Mahmoud Ghaedi.

Zohrabi and Nematollahi were reportedly sentenced to death for smuggling 80 kilos of drugs in the same legal case two years ago. Ghaedi was convicted of murder three years ago.

According to the report, on May 30, three other inmates were moved to solitary confinement in this prison awaiting their execution, but for unknown reasons, the executions were postponed. The Iran Human Rights Organization has identified one of these death-row inmates as Aref Rasouli, who was sentenced to death for a crime committed when he was underage.

No official sources or domestic media outlets within the country have provided coverage of these executions at the time of writing. In 2023, 66% of HRANA’s reports on executions lacked official announcements by judicial authorities and went unreported by media inside Iran, highlighting a troubling lack of transparency in due process.

In 2023, the Department of Statistics and Publication of Human Rights Activists in Iran registered the execution of 767 individuals. Out of these, 7 were carried out in public. Among the executed individuals whose genders were identified, 21 were female. Additionally, 2 juvenile offenders, defined as individuals under the age of 18 at the time of their alleged crimes, were also executed. For a comprehensive examination of the details and statistics surrounding the executions in Iran, refer to HRANA’s annual report.

Hossein Shanbehzadeh Arrested in Ardabil

Posted on June 5, 2024June 5, 2024 by . .

Freedom of Expression, News

Ardabil, Hossein Shanbehzadeh, حسین شنبه زاده

On June 4, security forces arrested Hossein Shanbehzadeh, a resident of Tehran, in Ardabil and transferred him to an undisclosed location.

Shanbehzadeh’s brother, Abbas, revealed on his social media page that Hossein made a phone call to his family, informing them of his detention. The reason for this arrest and his current whereabouts are unknown at this time.

Shanbehzadeh had faced a prior arrest for his activities on social media, for which he was released on bail pending legal proceedings. On September 12, 2020, Branch 28 of the Revolutionary Court sentenced him to three years and six months for “insulting the Supreme Leader of Iran,” 18 months for “insulting the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” and 10 months for “propaganda against the regime,” totaling five years and ten months. This verdict was upheld on appeal.

In June-July 2022, Shanbehzadeh announced on his social media page that his guarantor had received a warning notice stating that Shanbehzadeh should start serving his sentence in Evin Prison. Shanbehzadeh was released from prison in March-April 2023, though details of his release remain unknown.

Update on Sanaz Jahan Tigh’s Imprisonment in Tir Kala Prison, Sari

Posted on June 4, 2024 by . .

News, Prisoners

HRANA, Sanaz Jahan Tigh, Sari, Tir Kala Prison

Sanaz Jahan Tigh, a political prisoner and one of the detainees during the nationwide protests of 2022, is currently serving a two-year and six-month sentence at Tir Kala Prison in Sari.

Jahan Tigh was detained by security forces in late August 2023 and subsequently sentenced on September 9, 2023, to two years and six months in prison by the Sari Revolutionary Court. The charges against her, as reported by HRANA, include “propaganda against the regime” and “insulting the Supreme Leader of Iran.”

During her arrest, security agents conducted a search of her residence, confiscating various personal items such as books and manuscripts.

Jahan Tigh, who is about 30 years old and hails from Ghaemshahr, has been arrested twice before for her involvement in the 2021 nationwide protests. She has previously spent time in detention facilities in both Sari and Ghaemshahr, released on bail each time.

Additionally, she had been arrested in connection with earlier protests in Khuzestan and subsequently released after securing bail.

Overview of Political Prisoner Reza Mohammad-Hosseini’s Legal Situation in Ghezel Hesar Prison

Posted on June 4, 2024 by . .

News, Prisoners

Ghezel Hesar prison, Reza Mohammad Hosseini, رضا محمد حسینی

Political prisoner Reza Mohammad-Hosseini is currently incarcerated in Ghezel Hesar Prison and has been prohibited from making phone calls to his family since May 10.

The cause of this restriction remains unclear, though it may relate to his recently published audio message. In this recording, he disclosed that the IRGC forces barred him from authorizing his brother to manage exclusive inheritance affairs.

Mohammad-Hosseini was initially detained by security forces at his home on May 1, 2023, and held in Detention A-1, under IRGC Intelligence’s jurisdiction. After a period, he was relocated to the quarantine section of Evin Prison and subsequently moved to Ghezel Hesar Prison upon his indictment.

In January 2024, the Tehran Appellate Court convicted him on multiple charges, resulting in a total sentence of 14 years and six months. He received six years and three months for “membership in anti-regime groups to undermine national security,” the same term for “assembly and collusion against national security,” one year for “spreading propaganda against the regime,” property confiscation on charges of “illegal acquisition of property,” and an additional year for “defying government officers on duty.”

Baha’i Resident Detained Without Legal Justification in Bukan

Posted on June 4, 2024 by . .

News, Religious Minorities

Agah Sadeghi, Bahai arrested, Bahais, Bukan

Agah Sadeghi, a Baha’i living in Bukan, West Azerbaijan province, has been detained for over three weeks amid legal uncertainty. His family remains uninformed about his condition, heightening their worries.

A source close to Sadeghi’s family confirmed to HRANA that he was arrested by security forces in Bukan three weeks ago. Despite repeated inquiries, Sadeghi’s family has received no information regarding his whereabouts or condition, intensifying their concerns. Following his arrest, security agents also raided his home, conducting a thorough search and confiscating personal items belonging to him and his family.

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.

Five-Year Sentence for Mohammad-Hassan Sadeghian Confirmed by Appellate Court

Posted on June 3, 2024 by . .

News, Prisoners

Mashhad, Mohammad-Hassan Sadeghian, Vakilabad prison, محمد حسن صادقیان

The Appellate Court of Razavi Khorasan Province has upheld the five-year prison sentence of Mohammad-Hassan Sadeghian, who was detained during the nationwide protests in 2022. He is currently incarcerated in Vakilabad Prison.

Originally, the Revolutionary Court of Mashhad convicted Sadeghian on several charges, including “assembly and collusion against national security,” “propaganda against the regime,” and “disturbing public order.”

Sadeghian was arrested at his home on September 25, 2022, and has been held in Vakilabad Prison since his arrest.

Monthly Report – May 2024: Human Rights Situation in Iran

Posted on June 3, 2024 by Julie2024

News

Monthly Report

HRANA – HRA’s Statistics Department has released its monthly report for May 2024, revealing a concerning surge in human rights violations throughout Iran. This month witnessed the execution of 64 individuals, comprising 57 men and 3 women and includes 1 juvenile offender.. Shockingly, only 6 of these executions were reported by official sources, indicating a severe lack of transparency. Furthermore, 7 individuals were sentenced to death, reflecting a persistent trend of capital punishment in Iran.

Freedom of expression continues to be suppressed, with 363 cases related to this issue reported this month. Arrests of journalists and individuals critical of the regime persist, with 4 journalists detained and prominent figures like Mehrshad Kalini arrested for protesting against death sentences. Additionally, the recent death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash led to arbitrary arrests and interrogations of citizens posting about the incident on social media.

Prison conditions remain dire, with reports of medical neglect, prolonged judicial processes, and lack of legal representation. Recent incidents, including solitary confinement of political prisoners like Zartasht Ahmadi Ragheb and Hamzeh Darwish’s attempted suicide, highlight the urgent need for improved conditions and fair treatment within Iran’s prison system.

Women’s rights continue to be violated, with increased surveillance and arrests for non-compliance with hijab regulations under “Operation Noor.” Aida Shakarami and Zhina Modarresi Gorji are among those facing charges related to their activism, demonstrating ongoing crackdowns on dissent and stringent enforcement of hijab laws.

Workers face hazardous conditions and economic strain, with numerous fatalities and injuries resulting from work-related accidents. Additionally, trade activists like Mahmoud Beheshti Langroudi face legal persecution for their activism.

Executions

This month in Iran, the execution of 64 individuals took place, comprising 57 men and 3 women. Additionally, of the 64 executions only 6 were reported by official sources A total of 7 individuals were sentenced to death. Iran persists in executing individuals for offenses falling short of the standards outlined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Notably, there remains a consistent trend of individuals being executed for drug-related crimes, a practice in clear contravention of the right to life as stipulated by the ICCPR. This month, 38 people were executed for drug-related offenses.

It is deeply concerning that Iran continues to sentence and execute juvenile offenders. Ramin Sa’adat, who was only 16 at the time of his arrest, was executed on May 18, 2024. International human rights law explicitly prohibits the execution of juvenile offenders, yet Iran persists in this practice.

Hatem Ozdemir, a Turkish national, has been sentenced to death for the second time. After his initial death sentence was overturned by the Supreme Court, he was re-sentenced to death. Furthermore, Iran has recently executed two more Sunni religious prisoners, Anwar Khazari and Khosrow Basharat, following a highly controversial trial. The trial, which involved the alleged murder of a man, was marred by significant human rights violations, including the lack of effective legal representation for the defendants.

Additionally, Iran continues to execute political prisoners. Mahmoud Mehrabi was sentenced to death on the charge of “corruption in the world” based on allegations that he published falsehoods on his Instagram page. This situation highlights ongoing concerns about the fairness and impartiality of Iran’s judicial system and its adherence to international human rights standards.

Freedom of Thought and Expression

Iran continues to crackdown on anyone who protests or criticizes the regime, and continues to violate the right to freedom of expression and thought. This month there have been 363 cases related to freedom of expression. This includes Wafa Ahmadpour and Daniyal Moghadam, who were arrested for producing a protest music video. Since the 2022 protests, many artists who have used creative outlets to call attention to the protests have been arrested. On the 18th of May, Mehrshad Kalini, a pediatric specialist living in Lordegan city, was arrested by the security forces while he was holding a banner protesting the death sentences in one of the streets of this city.

Additionally, journalists continue to be arrested, mainly on charges of propaganda against the regime. This month 4 journalists were arrested. Journalist Ali Moslehi was summoned and imprisoned for this exact charge. Recently, Shirin Saidi was sentenced to five years in prison by the Revolutionary Court of Tehran. Saidi’s travels abroad to South Africa and Lebanon for journalism were used against her in the case.

This month, Ebrahim Raisi, Iran’s president, died in a helicopter crash, causing a significant media stir. As a result, several citizens were summoned, arrested, and interrogated for their posts about the incident. In Amlash city, 10 individuals were arrested for publishing material related to the crash, with the police claiming that the content was intended to disturb the public’s mind. Hayman Mam Khosravi, the brother of Hajar Mam Khosravi, one of the victims of the nationwide protests of 2022, was summoned to the Bukan Intelligence Department for publishing information related to the crash. Maryam Daulatabadi, a resident of Sabzevar, who was arrested after publishing material about the helicopter crash, is still in custody despite the passage of three days, and her family is unaware of her condition.

Prison Conditions

In Iran, there have been 16 cases of prisoners lacking medical care and 92 cases of uncertainty due to excessive prolongation of the judicial process and delays in determining the individuals’ status. Additionally, there are 45 cases where no information about the person has been available after their arrest, leaving families in the dark about the prisoners’ fates due to a lack of contact. Meanwhile, 8 political prisoners have been granted medical leave, and there have been 2 cases of suicide among the incarcerated. Furthermore, 26 prisoners have been transferred to solitary confinement, 6 have had no access to a lawyer, and 4 have gone on hunger strikes in protest of their conditions.

Amidst these alarming trends, recent incidents have highlighted the harsh realities faced by detainees. Zartasht Ahmadi Ragheb, a political prisoner in Qazalhasar prison in Karaj, was transferred to solitary confinement after protesting the treatment of another inmate. In Lakan prison in Rasht, Hamzeh Darwish attempted suicide and was returned to prison despite needing further medical attention. Another case in Qazalhasar prison involved Reza Khazaei, who was beaten by prison officers and transferred to solitary confinement after exposing the prison’s dire conditions in a video. Meanwhile, Varishe Moradi and Paharhan Azizi, political detainees in Evin prison, initiated a hunger strike to protest Moradi’s transfer to Ward 209 and the delay in their court hearing. These incidents underscore the urgent need for improved conditions and fair treatment within Iran’s prison system.

Women

The implementation of ‘Operation Noor’ has led to a significant increase in arrests and warnings related to improper hijab wear. In May alone, 602 women were arrested for violating hijab laws, and up until May 30,602 warnings were issued for improper hijab use. A notable incident occurred at Azad University Central Tehran Branch on May 26, where at least 100 students were forcibly detained for not adhering to mandatory hijab laws. They were released only after signing a commitment letter to comply with hijab rules, with some being allowed to leave only after changing their veils.

Aida Shakarami, the sister of deceased protester Nika Shakarami, has been formally charged with “inciting immorality and indecency” and “disobedience to officers.” Additionally, Zhina (Jina) Modarresi Gorji was sentenced to a total of 21 years in prison: ten years for “forming illegal groups aimed at overthrowing the regime,” ten years for “collaborating with hostile countries and groups,” and one year for “propaganda against the regime.” These cases highlight the ongoing crackdown on dissent and the stringent enforcement of hijab laws in Iran.

Workers

Workers in Iran face ongoing challenges and hazardous workplaces. In a tragic turn of events, this month saw 37 fatalities resulting from work-related accidents, with an additional 34 workers left injured. Moreover, 8345 workers reported unpaid wages spanning 67 months, while 4100 others were denied their insurance rights. Additionally, 3 businesses faced closure due to hijab violations, adding to the economic strain.

Furthermore, workers continue to commit suicide due to dire financial constraints and the pressure placed on them by employers and city officials, which makes both their work and personal situations difficult. Additionally, trade activists continue to be summoned to court and sentenced for their activism. Mahmoud Beheshti Langroudi, a teachers union activist was summoned on the charge of ‘propaganda against the Islamic Republic of Iran”. He is being tried based on his instagram posts.

Lastly, Kulbars (border couriers) continue to be killed and injured due to military activists at the border. Ajvan Kiani, was in a car when military officials, without warning, opened fire on the car. Mohammad Saran, Ghulam Sarani, and Nabi Sarani, were all killed due to indiscriminate firing of military officials. This killing of border workers continues to be a significant issue in Iran, where border workers are often killed or injured due to military activities. This month 5 Kulbars were killed and 3 were injured.

International News Update:

On the 13th of May, Javaid Rehman, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran along with other UN experts are calling on Iran to revoke the death sentence imposed on anti-corruption activist Mahmoud Mehrabi and to stop sentencing people to death for expressing their opinions. Mehrabi was convicted on vague charges of “corruption on earth” related to his online activism on justice and corruption in Iran. The experts argue that critical views, even if expressed online, do not warrant the death penalty under international law. They express alarm over Iran’s use of severe punishments for freedom of expression, including death sentences and long-term prison terms, citing the recent case of Iranian rapper Toomaj Salehi. The experts emphasize that freedom of expression is fundamental to a free and democratic society and call for amendments to Iran’s Constitution and penal code to prohibit executions and commute all death sentences. They highlight the chilling effect Mehrabi’s arrest and sentencing have on freedom of expression in Iran, particularly in the wake of nationwide protests in 2022.

Additionally Australia has sanctioned five IRGC individuals and three entities for human rights violations, this includes Amir Hatami, Esmail Qaani, Mohammad-Reza Ashtiani, Rashid Gholam, Mehdi Gogerdchian

Lastly, On the 30th of May several UN Experts published a statement about the violence and threats against journalists in Iran. The statement discusses the condemnation by UN experts of violence, threats, and intimidation against the Persian language news service Iran International and its journalists, staff, and owner, Volant Media UK Limited. The experts express deep concern over the escalation of such acts, culminating in the violent stabbing of journalist Pouria Zeraati outside his home in London. They highlight the broader pattern of repression against Persian language media services and the chilling effect these attacks may have on journalists both inside and outside Iran. The article also outlines instances of transnational repression targeting journalists reporting on Iran, including physical assaults and the imposition of travel and financial sanctions. The experts call on Iran to refrain from violence, threats, and intimidation against Iran International and other journalists reporting on Iran from abroad, urging investigation and prosecution of those responsible for such acts.

Download Full Pdf: Monthly Report May

Overview of Political Prisoner Elahe Fooladi’s Legal Situation in Evin Prison

Posted on June 3, 2024June 3, 2024 by . .

News, Prisoners

Elahe Fooladi, Elaheh Fooladi, Evin Prison, HRANA, Tehran Revolutionary Court, الهه فولادی

Elahe Fooladi, a political prisoner, is currently serving a five-year sentence in Evin Prison, following a conviction by the Tehran Revolutionary Court on charges of “propaganda against the regime” and “assembly and collusion against national security.”

A source close to the Fooladi family informed HRANA that she has been in the Women’s ward of Evin Prison since December 12, 2023.

Fooladi, approximately 46 years old and originally from Khalkhal, has previously experienced imprisonment. In early 2020, she and her husband were detained by security forces and held in Evin Prison until her conditional release later that summer.

Instagram Page Administrators Arrested in Isfahan for Promoting Western Lifestyles

Posted on June 3, 2024June 3, 2024 by . .

Freedom of Expression, News

Instagram admin arrested, Isfahan, modelling

The head of Isfahan’s cyber police announced the blocking of 35 Instagram pages and the arrest of their administrators for promoting what has been described as “Western lifestyles and the dissemination of modeling content and vulgar material on Instagram.”

The chief of Isfahan’s cyber police stated: “Cyber police experts in the province identified and arrested the administrators of 35 Instagram pages for promoting Western lifestyles and modeling advertisements with inappropriate, vulgar content.”

Mostafa Mortazavi added that, following the removal and blocking of the content of the posts produced on the said Instagram pages, these individuals were handed over to the judicial authorities with cases filed against them.

The report does not disclose the detainees’ identities, their places of detention, or the specific charges against these citizens.

In 2023, data from the Department of Statistics and Publication of HRA revealed a sevenfold increase in the arbitrary arrests of citizens by police and security forces, infringing upon citizens’ privacy and lifestyle compared to the previous year.

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Overview of 21 Years of Security Crackdown on Dual and Foreign Nationals

Human Rights Activists in Iran have documented the arrest of 101 individuals with foreign or dual citizenship by Iranian security agencies since 2003. This analysis reveals significant flaws in the judicial system, highlighted by routine arbitrary detentions and the absence of fair legal processes.

Three Inmates Executed in Shiraz’s Adelabad Prison

Three inmates convicted of drug offenses were executed in Adelabad Prison, Shiraz, on June 1, according to the Iran Human Rights Organization.

Hossein Shanbehzadeh Arrested in Ardabil

On June 4, security forces arrested Hossein Shanbehzadeh, a resident of Tehran, in Ardabil and transferred him to an undisclosed location.

Update on Sanaz Jahan Tigh’s Imprisonment in Tir Kala Prison, Sari

Sanaz Jahan Tigh, a political prisoner and one of the detainees during the nationwide protests of 2022, is currently serving a two-year and six-month sentence at Tir Kala Prison in Sari.

Overview of Political Prisoner Reza Mohammad-Hosseini’s Legal Situation in Ghezel Hesar Prison

Political prisoner Reza Mohammad-Hosseini is currently incarcerated in Ghezel Hesar Prison and has been prohibited from making phone calls to his family since May 10.

Baha’i Resident Detained Without Legal Justification in Bukan

Agah Sadeghi, a Baha’i living in Bukan, West Azerbaijan province, has been detained for over three weeks amid legal uncertainty. His family remains uninformed about his condition, heightening their worries.

Five-Year Sentence for Mohammad-Hassan Sadeghian Confirmed by Appellate Court

The Appellate Court of Razavi Khorasan Province has upheld the five-year prison sentence of Mohammad-Hassan Sadeghian, who was detained during the nationwide protests in 2022. He is currently incarcerated in Vakilabad Prison.