The global spotlight on human rights in Iran is intensifying once more. Esteemed Nobel Peace Prize recipient and renowned human rights activist, Narges Mohammadi, was reportedly seized by Iranian security forces on Friday in a violent manner. This dramatic arrest occurred as she arrived in Mashhad to attend a memorial service for the late human rights lawyer, Khosro Alikhani.
The 53-year-old Mohammadi had recently been released on medical grounds and was expected not to be imprisoned again. According to her foundation, police and security officers forcibly detained her during the service, along with several other social activists. Videos circulating on social media show Mohammadi addressing a crowd without a hijab and chanting slogans, after which heavy security was deployed at the scene.
Mashhad's Governor, Hassan Hosseini, confirmed that some individuals were detained as a "preventive measure," though he did not address the allegations of force. Hadi Ghaemi, head of the Center for Human Rights in Iran, criticized this as a direct assault on freedom of expression.
Potential Human Rights Protests Loom
This arrest comes at a time when Iran is intensifying its crackdown on dissenting voices amid economic pressure, sanctions, and potential regional conflict. Western countries and human rights organizations are likely to amplify their disapproval, particularly as Iran signals interest in resuming nuclear negotiations with the United States.
It's noteworthy that Narges Mohammadi battles severe health issues, having suffered a heart attack and recently undergone major surgery. Doctors have cautioned that returning her to prison could be life-threatening. Despite this, she has continued her active participation in protests and human rights campaigns even while out of prison.
Previous Arrests Due to Memorial Attendance
Over the past three decades, Narges Mohammadi has been imprisoned multiple times on politically motivated charges. Intriguingly, her prior arrest also followed attendance at a memorial service, suggesting that even peaceful tributes are now perceived as challenges to authority in Iran.
10/15/2023:
Mohammadi is released on medical grounds.
11/23/2023:
Arrives in Mashhad for a memorial service.
11/23/2023:
Detained by Iranian security forces during the service.
11/24/2023:
Videos surface showing Mohammadi addressing crowds.
11/25/2023:
International outcry begins, focusing on human rights and freedom of expression.
