Recent news highlights a sad reality: the repression of journalists in Iran. Journalists Niloufar Hamedi and Elaheh Mohammadi were sentenced to prison terms for revealing to the public the death of young Kurd Mahsa Amini, who died in detention.
Niloufar Hamedi, photojournalist, and Elaheh Mohammadi, reporter, were sentenced to seven and six years in prison respectively. Their sentences come with charges including cooperation with the United States, conspiracy against the country’s security and propaganda against the Islamic Republic.
This verdict confirms the fears of those who denounce the lack of press freedom in Iran. The two journalists have been incarcerated since September 2022 in Evin prison in Tehran, and their trial began in May. It is important to emphasize that this verdict can be appealed within 20 days.
These convictions follow their coverage of the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian Kurd arrested in Tehran for violating the dress code imposed by the Islamic Republic. The accusations against the journalists include “propaganda” against the regime and conspiracy against national security.
Unfortunately, pressure on media and journalists in Iran is commonplace. In addition to journalists, Mahsa Amini’s lawyer was also sentenced to one year in prison for discussing the case with foreign and local media.
This situation raises many questions about freedom of expression and respect for human rights in Iran. The prison sentences imposed on journalists Niloufar Hamedi and Elaheh Mohammadi only reinforce the need to support and defend press freedom around the world.
It is essential that the international community continues to put pressure on the Iranian authorities to respect the fundamental principles of press freedom and respect for human rights. Only strong international support can help end the repression of journalists and guarantee freedom of expression for all.