Denial of Phone Calls and Family Visits; Azar Yahu’s Detention Continues at Vakilabad Prison in Mashhad

HRANA – Azar Yahu remains in detention at Vakilabad Prison in Mashhad without a clear legal status, despite 125 days having passed since her arrest. Since Sunday, July 5, she has been subjected to a disciplinary ban on phone calls and family visits.

According to HRANA News Agency, Azar Yahu remains in detention at Vakilabad Prison in Mashhad without any judicial resolution to her case.

A source familiar with the matter and close to Yahu’s family confirmed the news to HRANA, stating: “Since Sunday, July 5, Azar Yahu has been deprived of phone calls and family visits as a disciplinary measure and has been transferred to Ward 6 of Vakilabad Prison in Mashhad. Prison officials have claimed that the disciplinary action was taken because she had published a statement about her conditions in prison. However, she has not published any such statement.”

The source added that although 125 days have passed since Ms. Yahu’s arrest, no verdict has yet been issued in her case, which remains under judicial review.

Azar Yahu, aged approximately 39, has been charged with “collaboration with Israel.” According to reports received by HRANA, the charge is based on her online activities, including the use of stickers on social media. Authorities have also cited her presence in the streets and dancing on the day of Ali Khamenei’s death as additional reasons for her arrest.

She was arrested in Mashhad by the IRGC Intelligence Organization on March 5, 2026.

Ongoing Hunger Strike: Latest Update on British Couple Lindsay and Craig Foreman in Prison

HRANA – Craig Foreman and Lindsay Foreman, the British couple imprisoned in Evin Prison, remain on hunger strike in protest against the authorities’ continued disregard for their demands. They have been denied adequate medical care, access to essential medication, and the ability to make phone calls to each other or their family members.

According to HRANA, Craig and Lindsay Foreman continue their hunger strike.

Based on information received by HRANA, the two British nationals remain on hunger strike and have been denied access to on-site medical examinations and visits from a doctor or nurse. Lindsay Foreman must walk a considerable distance, including a long corridor and approximately 30 stairs, to reach the prison clinic. She has not received a medical check-up for about ten days. She is reportedly suffering from dizziness, body tremors, severe weakness, and has lost more than 14 kilograms. Craig Foreman has also lost approximately 16 kilograms.

A source familiar with the couple’s situation confirmed the information to HRANA, stating: “Craig and Lindsay Foreman have recently been allowed to speak with their lawyer by telephone, but they remain barred from contacting their family members, children, or even each other. In addition, essential medications, eyeglasses, books, and hygiene supplies sent by the British Embassy have still not been delivered to them, despite approval from the prison clinic physician and ward officials. According to the source, the prison’s Protection Unit and security team have refused to hand over these items, despite a previous promise made to the British ambassador.”

The same source said that pressure on the couple intensified after they gave interviews to BBC World News in which they referred to the number of executions in Iran. During his imprisonment in Evin and Greater Tehran prisons, Craig Foreman has lived alongside prisoners sentenced to death and witnessed prisoners being transferred for execution. He is currently housed with several prisoners facing imminent execution. In her interview from inside prison, Lindsay Foreman also spoke about executions in Iran. The couple stated: “In Iran, speaking about executions can result in people being deprived of their basic rights. The Iranian government has no problem carrying out executions, but when those executions are reported, it responds harshly against those who speak about them.”

According to reports received by HRANA, Lindsay Foreman has now been on hunger strike for 49 days, while Craig Foreman has been on hunger strike for 58 days. They began their protest in May 2026, objecting to their prison conditions and the suspension of phone contact with their families. As her hunger strike has continued, Lindsay Foreman has experienced serious physical deterioration, including significant weight loss, low blood sugar, and fluctuations in blood pressure.

Their prison sentences were upheld in full by the Court of Appeals in June 2026.

In February 2026, Branch 15 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court, presided over by Judge Abolghasem Salavati, sentenced the couple to 10 years in prison on charges of “espionage.”

According to the couple, “Although we appeared before the court, no evidence was presented, and we were given no opportunity to defend ourselves.”

Craig and Lindsay Foreman, who had entered Iran by motorcycle as part of a round-the-world journey, were arrested in January 2025 in Kerman by IRGC intelligence forces. Iranian judicial authorities accused them of “espionage,” alleging that they had gathered information in several provinces under the guise of tourism and research activities.

The then British ambassador to Iran met with the couple at the Kerman Prosecutor’s Office in February 2025.

In recent years, Iranian authorities have arrested several foreign nationals on charges such as espionage or cooperation with hostile governments. Some have later been released following political negotiations. Human rights organizations and several Western governments have accused Iran of using such arrests as a means of political leverage, allegations that Iranian authorities have consistently denied.

Evin Prison: Mohammad Moaidi Shakib Has Been on Hunger Strike for Nine Days

HRANA – Mohammad Moaidi Shakib, a political prisoner held in Evin Prison, who suffers from multiple medical conditions, has been on hunger strike since Sunday, June 28, in protest against the continued denial of transfer to medical facilities outside the prison.

According to HRANA, Mohammad Moaidi Shakib, a political prisoner imprisoned in Evin Prison, has now been on hunger strike for nine days.

Based on information received by HRANA, Mr. Moaidi Shakib continues to be denied transfer to medical facilities outside the prison to receive specialized treatment despite suffering from heart disease, a prostate condition, and cervical and lumbar disc disorders. He began his hunger strike on Sunday, June 28, in protest against this ongoing deprivation.

A source close to the prisoner’s family confirmed the news to HRANA and said: “After beginning his hunger strike, the prison warden threatened him that if he continued his protest, he would be transferred to Razi Psychiatric Hospital (Aminabad).”

Mr. Moaidi Shakib had previously also gone on hunger strike to protest the authorities’ failure to provide adequate medical care for his physical health conditions.

Mohammad Moaidi Shakib has been sentenced to a total of three years and nine months in prison on charges of “assembly and collusion against national security” and “propaganda against the regime.” He had previously been tried by Branch 26 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court, presided over by Judge Iman Afshari.

Mohammad Moaidi Shakib was arrested at his home on September 9, 2023. He is currently being held in Hall 12 of Ward 7 of Evin Prison.

Appeals Court Upholds Prison Sentences of Five Christian Converts

HRANA – The Tehran Province Court of Appeals has upheld the prison sentences of five Christian converts, four of whom have been identified as Aida Najaflou, Nasser Navard Gol-Tappeh, Joseph Shahbazian, and Lida Alexsani (Alek-Sani). The five had previously been sentenced by the Tehran Revolutionary Court to a combined total of 55 years in prison.

According to a report by Article 18, the Tehran Province Court of Appeals recently issued its ruling, fully affirming the original verdicts. The decision was officially communicated to the defendants on June 22, 2026.

In December 2025, the Tehran Revolutionary Court had sentenced the defendants. Under the ruling, Nasser Navard Gol-Tappeh, Joseph Shahbazian, and another Christian convert involved in the case were each sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment, while Lida Alexsani received eight years in prison. Aida Najaflou was sentenced to a total of 17 years’ imprisonment. However, under Article 134 of the Islamic Penal Code, which provides for the enforcement of only the most severe sentence in cases involving multiple convictions, she will serve 10 years, the longest of her sentences.

The first hearing in the case against Aida Najaflou, Nasser Navard Gol-Tappeh, and Joseph Shahbazian was held on September 6, 2025, in Branch 15 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court, presided over by Abolghasem Salavati. They defended themselves against charges of “propaganda against the regime” and “acting against national security.”

The indictment was issued by the Evin Prosecutor’s Office on June 10, 2025. According to the final indictment, the charges were based on establishing, organizing, and leading a house church, conducting evangelical Christian house gatherings, and performing religious ceremonies such as baptism and Holy Communion.

Lida Alexsani was arrested at her home by agents of the Ministry of Intelligence on April 13, 2025. On May 13, 2025, she was released from Evin Prison after posting bail.

Aida Najaflou was also released from Evin Prison on bail on December 21, 2025. She had previously been transferred on April 13, 2025, from The Ministry of Intelligence’s detention facility, known as Ward 209 of Evin Prison, to the prison’s women’s ward. She had originally been arrested by security forces on February 6, 2025.

Nasser Navard Gol-Tappeh and Joseph Shahbazian, who were arrested on the same date and transferred to Evin Prison, remain in custody.

Both Nasser Navard Gol-Tappeh and Joseph Shahbazian, Christian converts residing in Tehran, have previously been arrested and imprisoned because of their religious activities.

Political Prisoner Arghavan Fallahi Sentenced to Death

HRANA – Arghavan Fallahi, a 24-year-old political prisoner held in Evin Prison, has been sentenced to death by Judge Abolghasem Salavati on the charge of baghi (armed rebellion).

According to information received by HRANA, the sentence was issued by Branch 15 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court, presided over by Judge Abolghasem Salavati. Ms. Fallahi was sentenced to death under Article 287 of the Islamic Penal Code on the charge of baghi (armed rebellion), based on allegations of membership in anti-government groups and involvement in armed action.

Following the Israeli strike on Evin Prison in June 2025, Ms. Fallahi was initially transferred to Greater Tehran Penitentiary and subsequently to Qarchak Prison in Varamin. She was later returned to Evin Prison.

Previously, an informed source told HRANA regarding her case: “Following her arrest, Ms. Fallahi was held for a period in Wards 209 and 241 of Evin Prison under the supervision of the Judiciary’s Intelligence Protection Organization. During this time, she was subjected to severe psychological torture, and efforts were made to extract forced confessions from her in connection with the killings of judges Mohammad Moghiseh and Ali Razini.”

Arghavan Fallahi was arrested by security forces in early January 2025 and transferred to Ward 209 of Evin Prison, The Ministry of Intelligence’s detention facility.

Ms. Fallahi had previously been arrested along with her father in November 2022 by security forces and was later transferred to Evin Prison. She was subsequently sentenced by Branch 26 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court, presided over by Judge Iman Afshari, to two years in prison on charges of assembly and collusion and propaganda against the regime. She was released from Evin Prison after completing her sentence.

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Lawyer Astareh Ansari Remains Detained Despite Urgent Medical Needs

HRANA – Astareh (Maryam) Ansari, a lawyer, has been held in a state of legal uncertainty for nearly two months in Adelabad Prison in Shiraz, without adherence to the principle of separation of prisoners based on the nature of their alleged offenses. She suffers from an autoimmune disease and requires regular treatment and urgent medical attention, raising growing concerns among her family and relatives about her physical condition.

According to information received by HRANA, Astareh Ansari, who suffers from an autoimmune disease, is currently being forced to sleep on the floor and is being held in Adelabad Prison in Shiraz without observance of the principle of separating prisoners according to the nature of their alleged offenses. She has also been denied access to adequate medical treatment and healthcare. Ms. Ansari’s detention order remains valid until July 5, and her family has expressed concern that it may be extended once again. Given her underlying medical condition and continued deprivation of specialized medical care, her ongoing detention has further intensified her family’s concerns about her health.

A source familiar with the matter confirmed the report to HRANA, stating: “This lawyer is facing the charge of ‘propaganda activity against the regime,’ based on Article 4 of the Law on Intensifying the Punishment for Espionage, and her case is currently under review by the judicial authorities in Fars Province.”

Ms. Ansari was arrested at her home in Shiraz by security forces on the evening of May 3, 2026.

Astareh (Maryam) Ansari, a lawyer, was previously arrested during the 2022 nationwide protests in Iran.

January 2026 Protests: Mahboubeh Shabani Remains Detained Without Charge Resolution in Mashhad Prison

HRANA – Mahboubeh Shabani, arrested during the January 2026 protests, has remained in legal limbo in Vakilabad Prison in Mashhad for more than five months since her arrest.

Based on information received by HRANA, despite the passage of 160 days since her arrest, Mahboubeh Shabani continues to be held without charge resolution in the Aramesh Ward of Vakilabad Prison.

She is facing charges of operational action in support of Israel, the United States, and individuals affiliated with opposition groups. Her case is currently under review by Branch 1 of the Revolutionary Court of Mashhad.

Mahboubeh Shabani was arrested by security forces on February 2, 2026, in connection with the nationwide protests in Mashhad.

It should be noted that protests and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28, 2025, and within two days spread beyond markets and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests became one of the largest protest movements of recent years. Following the crackdown by security and law enforcement forces, thousands were killed or injured, and tens of thousands were arrested or summoned by security agencies. For more information, readers may refer to HRANA’s comprehensive report titled “Crimson Winter,” documenting the first fifty days following the outbreak of Iran’s nationwide protests.

Leila Afarin Denied Specialized Medical Care Despite Brain Tumor Diagnosis

HRANA – Leila Afarin, a political prisoner held in Evin Prison, continues to be denied specialized medical care despite suffering from a brain tumor and joint disorders. Authorities have also rejected her requests for conditional release or furlough leading to release.

According to HRANA News Agency, Leila Afarin remains deprived of specialized medical treatment.

A source close to the political prisoner confirmed the information to HRANA, stating: “Ms. Afarin has a malignant brain tumor and suffers from joint disorders. Her physical condition has deteriorated significantly. She is currently experiencing symptoms including loss of balance, tremors in her hands and feet, and impaired vision. Despite her urgent need for specialized medical care, she continues to be denied access to adequate treatment.”

The source further noted that although Afarin has become eligible for conditional release and has only about nine months remaining on her sentence, authorities have yet to approve either her request for conditional release or furlough connected to her release.

It is worth noting that the political prisoner was transferred to a hospital for treatment some time ago but was returned to prison shortly afterward without receiving adequate medical care.

Leila Afarin, aged approximately 33, was arrested by security forces and transferred to the women’s ward of Evin Prison on December 10, 2025. She was subsequently sentenced by the Tehran Revolutionary Court to one year in prison.

Political Prisoner Saeed Shah-Ghaleh Marks 26th Year Behind Bars

HRANA – Saeed Shah-Ghaleh, a political prisoner, is currently serving the twenty-sixth year of his life sentence in Ward 4 of Qom Prison. Despite his repeated requests over the years, the relevant authorities have so far refused to grant him temporary leave or release through a special pardon.

According to HRANA, Saeed Shah-Ghaleh, one of Iran’s longest-held political prisoners, continues to serve his life sentence in Qom Prison.

A source familiar with the matter confirmed the information to HRANA, stating: “Mr. Shah-Ghaleh is serving the twenty-sixth year of his life sentence in Ward 4 of Qom Prison. Despite his repeated requests over the years for temporary leave or release through a special pardon, none of the relevant authorities have responded to his appeals, and there has been no change in his situation.”

Shah-Ghaleh, who has spent more than two decades behind bars, was transferred from Bushehr Prison to Ward 4 of Qom Prison in 2022. He had previously been held in Evin Prison and Mahshahr Prison.

Shah-Ghaleh was arrested in 2000 and was initially sentenced to death by a criminal court on the charge of “enmity against God (moharebeh) through collaboration with the Mujahedin-e Khalq Organization (MEK).” His sentence was later reduced by one degree to life imprisonment.

There have also been reports that Shah-Ghaleh was subjected to physical assault while in prison in 2008. Additionally, in 2022, he was reportedly coerced into making a forced confession renouncing his affiliation with the Mujahedin-e Khalq Organization, which was obtained under psychological pressure.

Abbas Lesani and Yousef Kari Launch Hunger Strike in Evin Prison

HRANA – Abbas Lesani (Lisani) and Yousef Kari, two Azerbaijani-Turk activists, remain in detention at Evin Prison. For two days, the two have been on a hunger strike in protest against prison authorities’ decision to transfer them to separate wards without observing the principle of separating prisoners based on the nature of their alleged offenses.

According to HRANA News Agency, Abbas Lesani and Yousef Kari remain in detention. Lesani and Kari informed their families and relatives that they began a hunger strike on Sunday, June 28, in protest against prison officials’ decision to transfer them to separate wards without complying with prison classification regulations and the principle of separating inmates according to the nature of their alleged offenses.

When prison authorities attempted to transfer them to separate wards in Ward 7, the two men stated that they would begin a hunger strike if prison regulations and the principle of separating prisoners based on the nature of their alleged offenses were not respected.

The trial of Abbas Lesani, Ali Kheirjoo, Yousef Kari, and Behzad Dashti, all Azerbaijani-Turk activists, was held on May 30 before Branch 28 of the Revolutionary Court. The defendants refused to attend the hearing.

In January 2026, Abbas Lesani was formally charged in Branch 6 of the Evin Prosecutor’s Office, presided over by Vahid Naseri, with offenses including “forming an illegal group, assembly and collusion against national security, and disrupting public order.” Yousef Kari, along with two other individuals, was charged with “membership in an illegal group, assembly and collusion against national security, and disrupting public order.”

Despite more than seven months having passed since their arrests, Abbas Lesani and Yousef Kari continue to be held in the quarantine section of Ward 7 of Evin Prison.

The two activists were arrested on November 11, 2025, outside Evin Prison while expressing support for the sit-in protest by the families of political prisoners Taher Naghavi and Vadood Asadi, who are imprisoned there. On November 18, 2025, Abbas Lesani and Yousef Kari, along with two other individuals, were transferred to The Ministry of Intelligence’s detention facility, known as Ward 209 of Evin Prison.

Abbas Lesani and Yousef Kari, both Azerbaijani-Turk activists, have previously been arrested and subjected to judicial prosecution due to their civil activism.