Iran has released Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi, an activist who was jailed for spreading anti-state propaganda, after a 21-day medical leave. The decision comes amid concerns over her deteriorating health and harsh prison conditions.
Mohammadi, 52, was convicted of criticizing Iran’s government and laws curtailing women’s rights before being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2023. Her lawyers had petitioned for more time to recover from surgery on her leg, which they say is essential to prevent further health complications.
The Iranian authorities have agreed to allow Mohammadi to leave prison for 21 days, but her foundation says this is insufficient. They argue that overcrowding and unsanitary conditions in the prison are endangering her recovery.
Mohammadi’s release has been welcomed by her family, including her husband Taghi Rahmani, who said his children spoke to their mother for the first time in nearly three years, sparking an emotional conversation.
However, the family is demanding Mohammadi’s permanent freedom. Her children, now 18, had been campaigning for her release for months.
Mohammadi’s case has highlighted the dire conditions faced by prisoners in Iran’s overcrowded and underfunded prisons. In recent weeks, two fellow prisoners went on hunger strike to protest neglect of medical care for Mohammadi.
The Nobel Committee had also urged Iranian authorities to end Mohammadi’s imprisonment permanently and ensure she receives proper medical treatment.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/04/world/middleeast/iran-narges-mohammadi-prison-surgery.html