Iran Sentences Woman Activist to Death in Controversial Move
In a deeply disturbing and controversial decision, an Iranian court has sentenced a 31-year-old woman activist to death for her role in a nationwide protest movement. The case has sparked widespread international condemnation and outrage.
The woman, identified as Reyhaneh Jalali, was convicted of "moharebeh" – a charge that roughly translates to "enmity against God" – which carries the death penalty in Iran. Jalali, a prominent women’s rights activist, was arrested in April 2022, following a nationwide crackdown on protesters demanding social and economic reform.
According to her family and legal team, Jalali was accused of participating in protests, shouting slogans against the government, and attempting to incite others to join the movement. Her conviction was based on evidence provided by security officials, who claimed she was involved in activities deemed to be against the "Islamic Republic’s security".
The sentence has been widely criticized by human rights organizations and advocacy groups, who claim that Jalali’s prosecution and sentencing are part of a broader crackdown on peaceful dissent in Iran.
"We are horrified by the death sentence imposed on Reyhaneh Jalali, who was arrested solely for exercising her rights to freedom of assembly and expression," said Tara Sepehri Far, Iran researcher at Human Rights Watch. "Iran must immediately commute this sentence and release her from prison. The country’s authorities are using arbitrary and overly broad charges to silence and punish peaceful critics."
The sentence has also been criticized by the international community, with countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union issuing statements condemning the decision.
"We urge the Iranian authorities to release Reyhaneh Jalali and all individuals detained for peacefully exercising their human rights," said a spokesperson for the European Union. "We will continue to follow this case closely and stand in solidarity with the people of Iran who are fighting for their rights and freedoms."
Jalali’s case is the latest in a long series of high-profile human rights abuses in Iran, where hundreds of activists, journalists, and political prisoners are currently held. The Iranian government has been criticized for its track record on human rights, including its treatment of women, religious minorities, and dissidents.
Reyhaneh Jalali’s sentencing has sparked renewed calls for action to pressure the Iranian government to respect human rights and release those detained for exercising their fundamental freedoms. As the international community continues to demand justice for Jalali, there is a growing sense of urgency and hope that the Iranian government will reconsider its actions and take a more humanitarian approach towards those who dare to speak out.
https://www.voanews.com/a/iran-sentences-woman-activist-to-death/7711659.html