In brief
Narges Mohammadi, a Nobel Peace Prize recipient for her advocacy against female oppression, was arrested in Mashhad, Iran. Her detention, which came during a memorial for a deceased lawyer, has been described as violent, prompting international concern, particularly from the Nobel Committee. This incident highlights increasing repression in Iran, where authorities have escalated their crackdown on dissenting voices following recent protests and political developments.
Iranian security forces have violently arrested Nobel Peace Prize winner and women's rights activist Narges Mohammadi, her foundation has reported.
The Narges Foundation stated that Mohammadi, 53, was detained in the eastern city of Mashhad, alongside several other activists.
The Nobel Committee expressed deep concern over the brutal arrest and called on authorities to clarify her whereabouts, ensure her safety, and release her unconditionally. Iran has yet to comment on the situation.
Mohammadi was awarded the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts against female oppression in Iran and advocating for human rights.
She had been recently released from Tehran's Evin prison for medical reasons, having been detained since 2021, but was expected to return shortly. Her latest arrest occurred during a memorial for Khosrow Alikordi, a lawyer who was found dead under suspicious circumstances.
According to reports, other activists also faced detention at the ceremony, where they chanted slogans against the government.
Taghi Rahmani, Mohammadi's husband, condemned the violent nature of her arrest, suggesting that it reflects a broader pattern of repression in Iran.
Mohammadi has been vocal about the intensified crackdown following a ceasefire agreement with Israel, indicating increased state control and violence against freedoms. She has remained defiant, refusing to adhere to mandatory dress codes and continuing her activism despite ongoing threats against her lives.
Throughout her life, Mohammadi has been arrested 13 times and has faced numerous harsh sentences totaling more than 36 years in prison, alongside being subjected to 154 lashes.
