The United States believes that all humans are deserving of dignity, respect, and equality before the law. The Iranian regime clearly disagrees, and their discrimination against the LGBTQ community is another injustice against the Iranian people. Iran’s 2013 Islamic Penal Code continues to penalize consensual same-sex relations between adults by severe and inhumane punishments, including the death …
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Chinese authorities routinely prohibit Muslims from practicing their faith — from forbidding fasting during the holy month of Ramadan to punishing halal practices. Regulations in Xinjiang in northwest China specifically forbid men from growing “abnormal beards” and women from wearing veils that cover their faces. Prayer mats and copies of the Quran are regularly confiscated …
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Iran recently observed the 41st anniversary of the Islamic Revolution. The lack of enthusiasm among ordinary Iranians is no mystery. The revolution has failed to deliver the just and prosperous society that Ruhollah Khomeini promised the Iranian people in 1979. Today, the revolution belongs primarily to the regime’s hypocritical elite. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s Setad hedge fund, worth tens of …
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“I also want to call attention to the Iranian regime’s misinformation campaign surrounding the origination of the Wuhan virus. Instead of focusing on the needs of the Iranian people and accepting genuine offers of support, senior Iranians lied about the Wuhan virus outbreak for weeks.” The Iranian leadership is trying to avoid responsibility for their …
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Women have influenced and advanced every facet of American life and culture. The strength, ingenuity, and spirit of our female leaders, innovators, and pioneers shape our Nation’s character, government, industry, families, and communities. During Women’s History Month, we honor the women who have changed our Nation and the world, and we reaffirm our commitment to …
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The Iranian regime has been jamming radio and TV signals across Iran since 2003. The scale to which the regime conducts jamming is so intense that even the Health Ministry and parliament officials openly confessed about its significant health risks. “Side effects of satellite jamming signals could lead to miscarriage and birth defects” said the Health …
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Following a tough and lengthy struggle, American women gained the right to vote in 1920, when Congress ratified the 19th amendment to the US Constitution. Iranian women did not obtain this right easily, either. They earned voting rights in 1963, on the heels of 56 years of protest and persistence. Three women in particular, were …
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Elections in the Islamic Republic of Iran have become such a mockery that even Iranian President Hassan Rouhani is decrying blatant election-rigging in upcoming Iranian elections. The regime’s Guardian Council, an unelected supervisory board, recently disqualified more than half of the 14,000 candidates vying for seats in Iran’s February 21 parliamentary elections. “These elections are …
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The U.S. is ensuring that cancer drugs and other lifesaving medicines reach Iranian patients, part of a broader push to support everyday Iranians and bypass the Iranian regime’s systemic corruption and financial mismanagement. The channel, developed in cooperation with the Swiss government, has already delivered at least 180,000 packages of medicine to Iran. “Iranian cancer …
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One in 4 of Iran’s most educated citizens leave their country when given the opportunity. They leave in search of greater social and religious freedoms and for better employment opportunities. “People are selling their computers, rugs, phones and jewelry to collect money” to leave the country, a travel agent in Tehran told the Wall Street …
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Iranian authorities arrested and imprisoned at least 1.7 million of their own people in the Tehran area over the past four decades, and many were executed, a 2019 report says. Among them: more than 5,700 members of the Baha’i religious minority and at least 860 journalists and citizen-journalists, according to Reporters Without Borders. The …
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:بیانیه ی مایک پامپئو، وزیر امورخارجه ی ایالات متحده 1398/9/21 امروز، ایالات متحده علیه سه نهاد ایرانی مرتبط با گسترش سلاح های كشتار جمعی اقدام می کند و هشت نهاد دیگررا كه به قاچاق سلاح از ایران به یمن كمك كرده اند تحریم می کند. وزارت امور خارجه ی آمریکا تحریم خطوط کشتیرانی …
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IRAN 2018 HUMAN RIGHTS REPORT EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Islamic Republic of Iran is an authoritarian theocratic republic with a Shia Islamic political system based on velayat-e faqih (guardianship of the jurist or governance by the jurist). Shia clergy, most notably the rahbar (supreme jurist or supreme leader), and political leaders vetted by the clergy …
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Press Statement Robert Palladino Deputy Spokesperson Washington, DC February 4, 2019 Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met today with Iranian women’s rights activist, journalist, and author, Masih Alinejad. Ms. Alinejad is the founder of the My Stealthy Freedom campaign, which initiated the White Wednesdays campaign, both of which work to promote freedom of expression and …
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Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Washington, DC December 10, 2018 Seventy years ago, the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Emerging from a world war that shocked humanity with its cruelty, the sovereign nations of the world united to specify those rights that are inherent to all persons, …
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Distributing cookies to bus drivers seeking higher wages has landed one Iranian union activist in prison for five years. Ebrahim Madadi was charged with “assembly and collusion against national security” in Iran in October for distributing the cookies and negotiating with government authorities for higher pay. He is among countless workers in Iran who are harassed, beaten and imprisoned …
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November 13, 2018 Action follows signing of new Hizballah sanctions legislation and re-imposition of Iran-related sanctions Washington – The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) took action today to target four Hizballah-affiliated individuals who lead and coordinate the group’s operational, intelligence, and financial activities in Iraq. Specifically, OFAC designated Shibl Muhsin ‘Ubayd …
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Press Statement Heather Nauert Department Spokesperson Washington, DC November 2, 2018 Today, we commemorate the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists. We renew our steadfast commitment to promoting a free and independent press and advocating for accountability against those who commit violence or other crimes against journalists. Commemorating this day is particularly …
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Statement By Secretary Pompeo October 30, 2018 Ending the Conflict in Yemen The United States calls on all parties to support UN Special Envoy Martin Griffiths in finding a peaceful solution to the conflict in Yemen based on the agreed references. The time is now for the cessation of hostilities, including missile and UAV strikes …
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Remarks Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Westin Grand Central Hotel New York City September 25, 2018 SECRETARY POMPEO: Thank you. Thank you, all. Thank you. Thanks. So I’m still – it’s going to take me just a minute to recover. I was desperately afraid Senator Lieberman was going to ask me to translate some Latin …
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Hostage taking has been a constant and contemptible feature of the Iranian regime ever since Islamic fundamentalists overthrew Iran’s government in 1979. That year, radicals took more than 60 U.S. Embassy employees hostage and held 52 Americans prisoners for 444 days. Foreigners who come to Iran today to work, study or visit family are frequent …
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Princeton University graduate student Xiyue Wang’s love of history and languages took him to Tehran two summers ago to learn Persian and conduct research in Iran’s National Archives. Wang had the authorization of the Iranian government and admission to a language institute in Tehran. But in August 2016 authorities arrested Wang, charged him with espionage …
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Special Briefing Nathan A. Sales Ambassador-at-Large and Coordinator for Counterterrorism Via Teleconference September 19, 2018 MR PALLADINO: Thank you. Hello, everyone. This is Robert Palladino. Thank you so much for joining us for today’s call. Today’s call is on the record. And I also want to note that both the call and the report are embargoed until …
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Remarks Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Treaty Room Washington, DC September 17, 2018 Secretary Pompeo: Good afternoon, everyone. The United States anticipates processing up to 310,000 refugees and asylum seekers in Fiscal Year 2019. We propose resettling up to 30,000 refugees under the new refugee ceiling, as well as processing more than 280,000 asylum seekers. …
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Heather Nauert Spokesperson Department Press Briefing (Excerpts) Washington, DC September 11, 2018 The United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention has now concluded that the Government of Iran has no legal basis for the arrest and detention of Princeton University graduate student Xiyue Wang. The UN further notes that Iran committed multiple violations of his right …
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The United States is cutting all contributions to the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees and calling upon the international community to find new ways to help Palestinians. “The United States will no longer commit further funding to this irredeemably flawed operation,” State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said in an August 31 statement. “We are very …
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UNITED STATES MISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS Office of Press and Public Diplomacy September 7, 2018 As Ambassador Haley stated on September 4, President Trump will host a UN Security Council meeting when he visits New York for the UN General Assembly at the end of September. In addition to addressing Iran’s destabilizing aggression …
Read More» Iran remains the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism, carrying out attacks and other destabilizing activities through its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the corps’ specialized military unit called Quds Force (IRGC–QF). A major focus of U.S. sanctions is cutting off revenue streams to this group. In May, the U.S. and the United Arab Emirates together took action to …
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Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC August 13, 2018 The Department of State has designated Qassim Abdullah Ali Ahmed, AKA Qassim al-Muamen, as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) under Section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, which imposes sanctions on foreign persons who have committed, or pose a significant risk of committing, acts …
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Cities, towns and farms in Iran are running out of water largely due to poorly administered water resource policies and corruption, driving thousands of people from their homes and inciting protests . “The protests of the past few months show that the Iranian people are deeply frustrated with their own government’s failures,” Secretary of State Mike …
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President Donald J. Trump is Reimposing Sanctions Lifted Under the Horrible Iran Deal FOREIGN POLICY Issued on: August 6, 2018 Our policy is based on a clear-eyed assessment of the Iranian dictatorship, its sponsorship of terrorism, and its continuing aggression in the Middle East and all around the world. President Donald J. Trump REIMPOSING TOUGH SANCTIONS: President …
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A New York Supreme Court judge has ordered the return of a Persian bas-relief sculpture to Iran, the country from which it was reportedly stolen some 80-plus years ago. A bas-relief is a type of sculpture in which shapes are cut from the surrounding stone so that they stand out slightly against a flat surface. …
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The Government of Iran does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking and is not making significant efforts to do so; therefore Iran remained on Tier 3. Despite the lack of significant efforts, the government took some steps to address trafficking, including steps to ratify the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC). However, the …
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Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Library Simi Valley, CA July 22, 2018 SECRETARY POMPEO: Thank you all. Thank you. (Applause.) Thank you very much. Well, thank you, Fred, for that kind introduction. It reminded me when I was going through my confirmation process they were chasing down all the people …
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BUREAU OF COUNTERTERRORISM July 5, 2018 Iran’s regime has brought suffering and death to the world and its own people. Just in Europe, Iran-sponsored assassinations, bombings, and other terrorist attacks have scarred countless lives. Download PDF»
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Press Release July 9, 2018 Washington – Today the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated Mahan Travel and Tourism Sdn Bhd, a Malaysia-based General Sales Agent (GSA), for acting for or on behalf of Mahan Air, an Iranian airline previously designated in connection with Iran’s support for international terrorism. GSAs …
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Ambassador Nikki Haley U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations U.S. Mission to the United Nations Washington, DC July 18, 2018 Thank you, very much, thank you. Thank you so much, Kay. And thank you to the Heritage Foundation. It’s great to be back, and I thank you so much for the work that happens …
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When man-made and natural disasters strike and millions lose or flee their homes, the United States does more to help than any other country. It’s been that way for decades and remains so today. Reducing human suffering and helping the world’s refugees are cornerstones of U.S. national security policy . All told, through the State Department’s Bureau of …
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Statement by Secretary Pompeo June 27, 2018 Recent Protests in Iran The Iranian government is squandering its citizens’ resources, whether its adventurism in Syria, its support for Hizbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis, or its ambitions for wastefully expanding its nuclear program, it will only add to the suffering of the people of Iran. As I …
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Mike Pompeo, Secretary of State Nikki Haley, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations Washington, DC June 19, 2018 SECRETARY POMPEO: Good afternoon. The Trump administration is committed to protecting and promoting the God-given dignity and freedom of every human being. Every individual has rights that are inherent and inviolable. They are given by God, and not …
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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson STATEMENT BY HEATHER NAUERT, SPOKESPERSON June 18, 2018 Execution of Mohammad Salas, Iranian Sufi Dervish We condemn the Iranian government’s execution of Mohammad Salas, a member of the long-persecuted Iranian Gonabadi Sufi Dervish community. According to reports, Mr. Salas was hanged this morning at Rajai Shahr Prison, the …
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The United States applauded the Canadian parliament’s condemnation of Iran for support for terrorism. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo welcomed the move in a tweet and called on other nations to hold Iran’s leaders accountable. Canadian lawmakers on June 12 approved a resolution that “strongly condemns the current regime in Iran for its ongoing sponsorship of terrorism around the …
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Press Release U.S. Department of the Treasury MAY 30, 2018 Washington – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated two Iranian entities for committing serious human rights abuses on behalf of the Government of Iran, as well as three leaders of one of these entities, the Ansar-e Hizballah organization. …
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Iran Executive Summary The constitution defines the country as an Islamic republic, and specifies Twelver Ja’afari Shia Islam as the official state religion. It states all laws and regulations must be based on “Islamic criteria” and official interpretation of sharia. The constitution states citizens shall enjoy human, political, economic, and other rights, “in conformity …
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The Islamic Republic of Iran is a theocratic republic with a Shia Islamic political system based on “velayat-e faqih” (“guardianship of the jurist” or “rule by the jurisprudent”). Shia clergy, most notably the “Rahbar” (“supreme jurisprudent” or “supreme leader”), and political leaders vetted by the clergy dominate key power structures. The supreme leader is the …
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U.S. Department of the Treasury Office of Public Affairs Press Release: March 19, 2018 Contact: Treasury Public Affairs, (202) 622-2960 Treasury Department Reaffirms Commitment to Fostering Internet Freedom and Supporting the Iranian People WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) today highlighted existing guidance …
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UNITED STATES MISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS Office of Press and Public Diplomacy March 12, 2018 Ambassador Haley Delivers Remarks at a UN Security Council Meeting on the Ceasefire in Syria Ambassador Nikki Haley, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, delivered remarks this morning at a UN Security Council briefing on UN …
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The White House Office of the Press Secretary March 4, 2018 The United States condemns the ongoing military offensive that the Assad regime, backed by Russia and Iran, is perpetrating against the people of Eastern Ghouta. After repeatedly delaying the passage of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2401, which demanded a 30-day cessation of hostilities across Syria, Russia has …
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Statement by the U.S. Delegation to the United Nations Human Rights Council Geneva February 27, 2018 The United States is appalled to learn that the government of Iran is sending its Justice Minister, Seyyed Alireza Avaei, to address the UN Human Rights Council. Minister Avaei oversaw the summary executions of Iranians in the late 1980’s. …
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United States Mission To The United Nations Office of Press and Public Diplomacy February 25, 2018 Press Release: Ambassador Haley on Iran Human Rights Violator Speaking at UN Human Rights Council This week, Iran’s Minister of Justice, Seyyed Alireza Avaei, is set to address the UN Human Rights Council. Mr. Avaei is responsible for some of the worst …
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THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary February 15, 2018 Today, our Nation commemorates the birthday of an American hero, visionary, civil rights leader, and pioneer in the women’s suffrage movement—Susan B. Anthony. Born in 1820, Susan B. Anthony lived during a time when women across our country were unable to fully enjoy the …
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Heather Nauert Department Spokesperson Washington, DC February 15, 2018 This week marks the seven-year anniversary of the detention of 2009 Iranian presidential election candidates Mehdi Karroubi and Mir Hossein Mousavi, as well as Mousavi’s wife and women’s rights advocate Zahra Rahnavard. The continued house arrest of these three individuals contradicts Iran’s international obligations including …
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Statement By Heather Nauert, Spokesperson February 13, 2018 Death of Pakistani Human Rights and Democracy Advocate Asma Jahangir We join Pakistan and others around the world in mourning the untimely death of Pakistani human rights and democracy advocate, Asma Jahangir. For years, she courageously defended the rights of those who did not have a voice, and …
Read More» THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary February 7, 2018 The Donald J. Trump Administration is deeply concerned that Iran has returned United States citizen Baquer Namazi to its notorious Evin Prison after briefly releasing him on bail so he could undergo medical examination. We understand the decision to return Mr. Namazi to …
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The crowd outside Iran’s most notorious prison, Evin Prison in Tehran, grew in early January as family members and friends waited for news about their loved ones — people who had been arrested and detained by authorities after participating in anti-government protests. “The shroud of secrecy and lack of transparency over what happened to these detainees …
Read More» Press Release JANUARY 12, 2018 Treasury Sanctions Individuals and Entities for Human Rights Abuses and Censorship in Iran, and Support to Sanctioned Weapons Proliferators Iranian Regime Prioritizes Destabilizing Weapons While Silencing Its Citizens Washington – Today, the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated 14 individuals and entities in connection with serious …
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THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary January 10, 2018 Statement by the Press Secretary on Iran Protests The Trump Administration is deeply concerned by reports that the Iranian regime has imprisoned thousands of Iranian citizens in the past week for engaging in peaceful protests. Further reports that the regime has tortured or killed …
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Remarks at an Emergency UN Security Council Briefing on Iran Ambassador Nikki Haley U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations U.S. Mission to the United Nations January 5, 2018 Thank you, Mr. President, and Happy New Year to all of the members of the Security Council and the General Assembly. In the past week, …
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Office of the Spokesperson Statement By Heather Nauert, Spokesperson Designations Under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 In far too many places around the globe, people continue to be persecuted, unjustly prosecuted, or imprisoned for exercising their right to freedom of religion or belief. Today, a number of governments infringe upon individuals’ ability to adopt, …
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Press Statement Heather Nauert Department Spokesperson Washington, DC December 29, 2017 We are following reports of multiple peaceful protests by Iranian citizens in cities across the country. Iran’s leaders have turned a wealthy country with a rich history and culture into an economically depleted rogue state whose chief exports are violence, bloodshed, and chaos. As …
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Rex W. Tillerson Secretary of State Washington, DC December 10, 2017 Sixty-nine years ago today, in the aftermath of World War II, the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to recognize and elevate the inherent dignity and equal and inalienable rights of all individuals, and that these rights are the foundation …
Read More» In light of the tragic earthquake in Iran, we would like to highlight some of the ways in which Americans can provide humanitarian assistance to the Iranian people, consistent with the Iran-related sanctions administered by the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). General License E , issued by OFAC in 2013, authorizes nongovernmental …
Read More» United States Mission to The United Nations Office of Press and Public Diplomacy November 7, 2017 Press Release: Ambassador Haley on Weapons of Iranian Origin Used in Attack on Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia recently released information regarding a ballistic missile launched by the Houthis into Saudi Arabia in July 2017. The information shows that the …
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Joint Statement on Syria Chemical Weapons by Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel, and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson Press Statement Rex W. Tillerson Secretary of State Washington, DC November 8, 2017 On October 26, the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons-United Nations Joint Investigative Mechanism (JIM), …
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Office of the Spokesperson Statement By Heather Nauert, Spokesperson November 2, 2017 International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists Around the world, journalists work often at great personal risk to report on issues that impact the lives of individuals in all societies. They shine a light on abuses and corruption, expose threats posed by …
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UNITED STATES MISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS Office of Press and Public Diplomacy October 26, 2017 Press Release: Ambassador Haley on the Release of a Report on Chemical Weapons Use in Syria The findings issued today by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons and United Nations’ Joint Investigative Mechanism (JIM) have concluded …
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Office of the Spokesperson STATEMENT BY HEATHER NAUERT, SPOKESPERSON October 26, 2017 In Recognition of Intersex Awareness Day In recognition of Intersex Awareness Day, the United States stands in solidarity with intersex persons and their advocates around the world. We recognize that intersex persons face violence, discrimination, harassment, and persecution on account of their sex characteristics. …
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Name: Mohammad Nazari Occupation: Unknown Date of arrest: 1994 Charges: Supporting the Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan Sentence: Life imprisonment
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Name: Soheil Arabi Occupation: Blogger Date of arrest: November, 2013 Charges: Insulting the sanctities and the prophet of Islam Sentence: 7.5 years of imprisonment and no foreign travels for 2 years
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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson FACT SHEET September 20, 2017 U.S. Humanitarian Assistance in Response to the Crisis in Rakhine State, Burma The United States is providing an additional nearly $32 million in humanitarian assistance to address the urgent needs of Rohingya fleeing violence from Rakhine State, Burma to Bangladesh, as well …
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Name: Reza Shahabi Occupation: Bus Driver/labor activist Date of arrest: June 12, 2010 Charges: propaganda against the state /colluding with intent to act against national security Sentence: 6 years in prison. An additional 1 year was later added for alleged misconduct while in prison
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STATEMENT BY HEATHER NAUERT, SPOKESPERSON September 1, 2017 Sentencing of Mohammad Ali Taheri to Death in Iran We are deeply concerned by reports that an Iranian court has sentenced Mohammad Ali Taheri, the founder of an Iranian spiritual movement, to death. The charges of founding a religious cult and “spreading corruption on earth” are inconsistent with …
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THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary August 21, 2017 Statement on the Anniversary of the 2013 Syrian Chemical Weapons Attack Today marks the 4th anniversary of the Syrian regime’s deadly chemical weapons attack that killed more than 1,400 people in the Damascus suburb of Ghouta. This tragic event precipitated an international effort that …
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The penal code specifies the death sentence for proselytizing and attempts by non-Muslims to convert Muslims, as well as for moharebeh (“enmity against God”) and sabb al-nabi(“insulting the prophet”). The law prohibits Muslim citizens from changing or renouncing their religious beliefs. … “Within the limits of the law,” the constitution states Zoroastrians, Jews, and Christians (excluding converts from …
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THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary July 21, 2017 Statement on American Citizens Unjustly Detained in Iran President Donald J. Trump and his Administration are redoubling efforts to bring home all Americans unjustly detained abroad. The United States condemns hostage takers and nations that continue to take hostages and detain our citizens without …
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Office of the Spokesperson STATEMENT BY HEATHER NAUERT, SPOKESPERSON July 18, 2017 United States Announces New Iran-Related Sanctions The United States remains deeply concerned about Iran’s malign activities across the Middle East which undermine regional stability, security, and prosperity. Iran continues to support terrorist groups such as Hizballah, Hamas, and Palestinian Islamic Jihad that threaten Israel …
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Each year, the Department of State honors individuals around the world who have devoted their lives to the fight against human trafficking. These individuals are NGO workers, lawmakers, police officers, and concerned citizens who are committed to ending modern slavery. They are recognized for their tireless efforts—despite resistance, opposition, and threats to their lives—to protect …
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IRAN: TIER 3 The Government of Iran does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking and is not making significant efforts to do so; therefore, Iran remained on Tier 3. Despite the lack of significant efforts, the government took some steps to address trafficking, including operating some centers where trafficking victims …
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Statement from the Press Secretary The United States has identified potential preparations for another chemical weapons attack by the Assad regime that would likely result in the mass murder of civilians, including innocent children. The activities are similar to preparations the regime made before its April 4, 2017 chemical weapons attack. As we have previously …
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Name: Shahnaz Akmali Occupation: Prisoner’s rights activist Date of Arrest: January 25, 2017 Charge: Advertisement against the system Sentence: 1 year jail and
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Press Statement Rex W. Tillerson Secretary of State Washington, DC June 7, 2017 In recognition of LGBTI Month, the Department of State affirms its solidarity with the human rights defenders and civil society organizations working around the world to uphold the fundamental freedoms of LGBTI persons to live with dignity and freedom. We also recognize …
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Name: Tahereh Riahi Occupation: Editor for Borna News Agency Date of Arrest: December 2016 Charge: Unknown Sentence: Unknown She was released on bail in June 2017.
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May 17, 2017 U.S. State Department Issues Report on Human Rights Sanctions on Iran Highlights Iran’s Continuing Human Rights Abuses The State Department released today its semi-annual report to Congress detailing sanctions imposed on persons involved in human rights abuses in Iran. The report cites recent sanctions against the Tehran Prisons Organization and Sohrab Soleimani, …
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Office of the Spokesperson May 14, 2017 Statement By Heather Nauert, Spokesperson Nine Year Imprisonment of Bahai Leaders in Iran Nine years ago, seven leaders of Iran’s Bahai community were arrested and convicted of espionage, insulting religious sanctities, and propaganda against the Islamic Republic for activities related solely to their belief in and practice of …
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Islamic Republic of Iran is a theocratic republic with a Shia Islamic political system based on “velayat-e faqih” (“guardianship of the jurist” or “rule by the jurisprudent”). Shia clergy, most notably the “Rahbar” (“supreme jurisprudent” or “supreme leader”) and political leaders vetted by the clergy dominated key power structures. While mechanisms …
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Name: Vahid Sayyadi Nasiri Occupation: Political Activist Date of Arrest: October 13, 2016 Charge: “insulting supreme leader” and “propaganda against the state” Sentence: 8 years jail He was released in March 2017
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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson STATEMENT BY MARK TONER, DEPUTY SPOKESPERSON April 27, 2017 United States Citizens Detained in Iran On the sidelines of the April 25 meeting in Vienna of the Joint Commission overseeing implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, the U.S. delegation raised with the Iranian delegation its …
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Name: Atena Daemi Occupation: Human Rights Activist Date of Arrest: October 21st, 2014 Charge: “Colliding and conspiracy against the system”, “insulting the sanctities and the leader” and “Hiding the evidence of the crime” Sentence: 7 years in jail
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Name: Sina Dehghan Occupation: Student Date of Arrest: October 21, 2015 Charge: “Insulting the Prophet” Sentence: Death
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Treasury Takes Action to Target Serious Human Rights Abuses in Iran 4/13/2017 Washington – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned the Tehran Prisons Organization and Sohrab Soleimani, a senior official within Iran’s State Prison Organization, in connection with serious human rights abuses in Iran. This action reflects the …
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The Secretary of States’ International Women of Courage Award honors women who have demonstrated exceptional courage, strength, and leadership in acting to improve others’ lives. It is an extraordinary opportunity to bring international attention and support to women who have put their lives and/or personal safety at risk in order to improve their communities. Through …
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Name: Hengameh Shahidi Occupation: Journalist and Political Activist Date of Arrest: March 09, 2017 Charge: Unknown Sentence: Unknown
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First lady Melania Trump honored a group of women from around the world for their bravery in fighting for women’s empowerment and human rights, often at great personal risk. “Each one of these heroic women has an extraordinary story of courage which must inspire each of us to also achieve more than we ever imagined …
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Name: Marjan Davari Occupation: Translator Date of Arrest: September 24, 2015 Charge: “corruption on earth” and “adultery” Sentence: Death
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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson March 9, 2017 Statement by the Spokesperson The Ten-Year Anniversary of the Disappearance of Robert Levinson Today marks the ten-year anniversary of Robert Levinson’s disappearance from Kish Island, Iran. The United States remains unwavering in our commitment to bring him home. Over the last decade his family …
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Today, we mark the ten-year anniversary of the disappearance of United States citizen Robert “Bob” Levinson from Kish Island, Iran. The Trump Administration remains unwavering in our commitment to locate Mr. Levinson and bring him home. We want him back, and we will spare no effort to achieve that goal. The Levinson family has suffered …
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The Department of State released Country Reports on Human Rights Practices for 2016. The Secretary of State is required by law to provide to Congress every year, a full and complete report regarding the status of internationally recognized human rights. The Human Rights Reports describe the status in countries around the world of internationally recognized …
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Name: Kayvan Karimi Occupation: filmmaker Date of Arrest: October 13, 2015 Charge: “insulting the sacred” Sentence: one year, 223 lashes, 2 million Tooman He was released in April 2017
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Women’s History Month, 2017 BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION We are proud of our Nation’s achievements in promoting women’s full participation in all aspects of American life and are resolute in our commitment to supporting women’s continued advancement in America and around the world. America honors the celebrated women …
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Name: Azita Rafizadeh Occupation: teacher Date of Arrest: October 25, 2015 Charge: “membership in the illegal and misguided Baha’i group with the aim of acting against national security through illegal activities at the BIHE educational institute” Sentence: Four years
Read More» U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson February 14, 2017 STATEMENT BY MARK TONER, ACTING SPOKESPERSON Six-Year Anniversary of the House Arrests of Mir Hossein Mousavi, Mehdi Karroubi and Zahra Rahnavard This week marks the six-year anniversary of the detention without formal charges of former senior Iranian officials and 2009 presidential election candidates Mehdi …
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Name: Ahmadreza Djalali Occupation: Doctor, lecturer, and researcher in disaster medicine Date of Arrest: 25 April 2016 Charge: “espionage” Sentence: Death Sentence
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Name: Saeed Shirzad Occupation: Children’s rights activist Date of Arrest: September 12, 2015 Charge: “assembly and collusion against national security” Sentence: 5 years
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Name: Ali Shariati Occupation: Activist Date of Arrest: October 31, 2016 Charge: “acting against national security by participating in a protest against acid attacks on October 22, 2014” Sentence: 5 years
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David Geffen David Lawrence Geffen was born in February 21, 1943 in Brooklyn, New York from Immigrant parents and is an American business magnate, producer, film studio executive, and philanthropist. After finishing high school in Brooklyn, David attended the University of Texas at Austin for a semester, and then Brooklyn College, before again dropping out. …
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Jennifer Natalya Pritzker, born James Nicholas Pritzker in 1950 in Chicago, Illinois, is a billionaire investor and philanthropist, and a member of the Pritzker family. Pritzker enlisted in the U.S. Army on February 8, 1974. She graduated with a BA in History in May 1979 from Loyola University of Chicago. While serving in the army …
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Eric Kenneth Fanning was born in 1968 and is the United States Secretary of the Army. Eric was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and received his B.A. in history from Dartmouth College in 1990. His interest in government and politics began when he participated in the 1988 New Hampshire primary contest. Eric Fanning has spent most …
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Name: Esmail Abdi Occupation: Secretary General of the Teachers Association of Iran Date of Arrest: June 27, 2015 Charge: “propaganda against the state” and “collusion against national security” Sentence: 6 years
Read More» Name: Mohammad Reza Nekounam Occupation: Cleric Date of Arrest: January 2015 Charge: “Trying to overthrow the Qom Seminary” Sentence: 5 years
Read More» Name: Mohammad Reza Nekounam Occupation: Ayatollah Date of Arrest: January 2015 Charge: “Trying to overthrow the Qom Seminary” Sentence: 5 years
Read More» EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Islamic Republic of Iran is a theocratic republic with a Shia Islamic political system based on “velayat-e faqih” (“guardianship of the jurist” or “rule by the jurisprudent”). Shia clergy, most notably the “supreme jurisprudent” (or supreme leader), and political leaders vetted by the clergy dominated key power structures. While mechanisms for …
Read More» U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE STATEMENT BY MARK TONER, DEPUTY SPOKESPERSON October 18, 2016 The Sentencing of Siamak and Baquer Namazi We are deeply concerned about reports that U.S. citizens Siamak Namazi and Baquer Namazi have each been sentenced to 10 years in prison. Siamak Namazi has been unjustly detained in Iran for over a year. …
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The United States welcomes the appointment of Asma Jahangir of Pakistan as the new Special Rapporteur on human rights in Iran, in the UN Human Rights Council’s 33rd Session replacing Dr. Ahmed Shaheed of the Maldives, who will now take on the mandate of Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Religion or Belief.
Read More» In 1977, San Francisco politics was taken by storm when gay rights activist Harvey Milk was elected to the Board of Supervisors. As the first openly gay man elected to public office in the United States, Milk’s election was a triumph over anti-gay stereotypes. Milk’s ability to mobilize gays and straights alike resulted in the …
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Statement by the President on the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia On May 17, Americans and people around the world mark the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia by reaffirming the dignity and inherent worth of all people, regardless of who they love or their gender identity. Our nation is committed to the principle …
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Name: Davood Asadi, Afarin Chitsaz, Ehsan Mazandarani, and Ehsan Safarzaie Occupation: Journalists Date of Arrest: November 2015 Charge: “Acting Against National Security” Sentence: 5, 10, 7 and 5 Years in Prison Respectively Saman Safrzaie was released on March 2017. Ehsan Mazandarani was released on October 2017. Afarin Chitsaz was released on January 2018.
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Name: Habibollah Latifi Occupation: Engineering Student Date of Arrest: October 22, 2007 Charge: “Corruption on Earth” Sentence: Death, later it was changed to life in prison.
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Name: Nasim (Maryam) Naghash Zargaran Occupation: Unknown Date of Arrest: February 2011 Charge: “Propaganda Against the Islamic Regime” and “Gathering and Acting Against National Security Through Establishment of House Churches” Sentence: 4 Years in Prison She was released in August 2017.
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Name: Mehdi Rajabian, Hossein Rajabian, and Yousef Emadi Occupation: Music Distributors and Managers of BargMusic Date of Arrest: October 5, 2013 Charge: “Insulting the Sacred” and “Propaganda Against the State” Sentence: Six Years in Prison and 200 Million Rials (Approximately $6,600 USD) Fine
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Name: Golrokh Irayee Occupation: Civil Rights Activist Date of Arrest: 2014 Charge: Insulting Sanctities and Propaganda Against the Regime Sentence: 6 Years
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Name: Isa Saharkhiz Occupation: Journalist Date of Arrest: November 1, 2015 Charge: “Acting Against National Security” and “Propaganda Against the State” Sentence: 21 months jail He was released in May 2017 and then again was convicted to 6 months jail in June 2017.
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Girls often are prevented from attaining their full potential in traditional societies because educating daughters is not a priority. School fees and concerns about girls’ safety at school also hinder their education. But overwhelming evidence that educated girls benefit society and international focus on universal education are gradually overcoming these barriers. Why Educating Girls Matters Few investments pay off …
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Name: Omid Alishenas Occupation: Civil Engineer and Children’s Rights Activist Date of Arrest: September 4, 2014 Charge: “Colluding Against National Security” and “Insulting the Supreme Leader.” Sentence: 10 Years in Prison He was released on July 2017
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Name: Arash Zad Occupation: Internet Entrepreneur Date of Arrest: July Charge: Undetermined Sentence: Undetermined He was released in December 2017.
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Name: Hadi Heidari Occupation: Cartoonist Date of Arrest: November 16, 2015 Charge: Propaganda against the State Sentence: One year in prison Current Status: Released
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Name: Reyhaneh Tabatabaei Occupation: Journalist Date of Arrest: November 17, 2015 Charge: “Propaganda Against the Islamic State” and “Promoting Sectarian Division” Sentence: One Year in Prison She was released in January 2017
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Name: Mehdi Moosavi Occupation: Poet Date of Arrest: December 8, 2013 Charge: “Insulting the Sacred” Sentence: 9 Years in Prison and 99 Lashes
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Name: Fatemeh Ekhtesari Occupation: Poet Date of Arrest: December 8, 2013 Charge: “Insulting the Sacred” Sentence: 11 and a half Years Jail and 99 Lashes
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Excerpts of op-ed by First Lady Michelle Obama appeared on TheAtlantic.com . First Lady Michelle Obama: Let Girls Learn Addressing the global crisis in girls’ education requires not just investment, but challenging cultural beliefs and practices. Right now, 62 million girls worldwide are not in school. They’re receiving no formal education at all — no reading, …
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Name: Ebrahim Firouzi Occupation: Unknown Date of Arrest: 7 March, 2013 Charge: “Propagating Against the Islamic Regime,” “Organizing Evangelistic Activities,” “Contact with Foreigners and Anti-Islamic Revolutionary Networks Outside the Country” Sentence: 5 Years in Prison
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Name: Rassoul Badaghi Occupation: Teacher and Board Member of the Iranian Teachers Association Date of Arrest: 9 September, 2009 Charge: “Attending Gatherings with the Intent to Disrupt National Security,” “Insulting Imam Khomeini and the Supreme Leader,” and “Propaganda Against the State” Sentence: Six Years in Jail and 5 Years Banned from Social Activities Current Status: Released
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Author: S. Dollard On the move: Diasporas connect the world Girls’ participation in sports helps them to excel not only as athletes, but in life. According to the United Nations, girls and women who participate in sports are more likely to do a number of things: Attend school and participate in society. Work with people from different backgrounds, promoting tolerance. Challenge gender stereotypes and …
Read More» Name: Mostafa Azizi Occupation: TV/Film Producer and Writer Date of Arrest: February, 1 2015 Charge: “Assembly and Collusion Against National Security,” “Insulting the Supreme Leader,” and “Propaganda Against the State.” Sentence: 8 Years Released on April 10, 2016
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Name: Nasrin Sotoudeh Occupation: Human Rights Lawyer Date of Imprisonment: September 2010 Charge: Propagation Activities Against the Regime; Cooperating with the Center for Human Rights Defenders; and Endangering National Security Sentence: Six Years in Prison and a Ban from the Practice of Law for Ten Years She was released from prison and then again arrested in June 2018.
Read More» Name: Saeed Matinpour Occupation: Civil Activist and Journalist Date of Imprisonment: May 25, 2007 Charge: Connection with Foreigners and Propaganda Against the Regime Sentence: 8 Years He was released on August 26, 2015.
Read More» Name: Nahid Gorji Occupation: Civil Rights Activist Online; Degree in Sociology. Date of Arrest: October, 2014 Charge: Held Without Official Charges Sentence: Undetermined She was released in January 2017.
Read More» On August 26, 1920, after years of agitating to break down the barriers that stood between them and the ballot box, American women won the right to vote. On the front lines of pickets and protests, champions from every corner of our country banded together to expand this fundamental freedom to women and forge a path …
Read More» Name: Zeinab Jalalian Occupation: Women’s Rights Activist Date of Arrest: March 2008 Charge: Enmity Against God Sentence: Life in Prison
Read More» Name: Hamid Reza Moradi Sarvestani Occupation: Religious Minority Practitioner (Gonabadi Dervish), Human Rights Activist Date of Arrest: September 4, 2011 Charge: Propaganda Against the Regime, Insulting the Supreme Leader, Agitation of the Public Consciousness, Establishment and Membership in Perverse Groups, and Disruption of the Public Order. Sentence: 10 Years and 6 Months in Prison He …
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For the first time in U.S. history, two women have crossed rivers, scaled walls, and jumped over a gender barrier to make it through the U.S. Army’s toughest training program known as Ranger School. Both are in their 20s and are lieutenants. They’ll now wear the Ranger tab on their uniforms Nearly four months ago, …
Read More» Name: Esmail Gerami Moghaddam Occupation: Iran-Iraq War Veteran, Former Member of Parliament, and Spokesman for Mehdi Karroubi’s Etemad Melli Party Date of Arrest: July 17 2015 Charge: Participation in 2009 Protests Sentence: 5 Years in Prison
Read More» Name: Mohammad Hossein Rafiee Fanood Occupation: Retired University Chemistry Professor, Activist Date of Arrest: June 16, 2015 Charge: “Propaganda Against the Regime” Sentence: Six Years in Prison
Read More» Name: Elham Farahani Date of Arrest: May 11, 2013 Charge: Charged as a Religious Minority Practitioner of Bahai’ Faith. Sentence: 4 Years in Prison She was released in February 2018.
Read More» Name: Omid Kokabee Occupation: PhD Student in Optics at the University of Texas at Austin ِDate of Imprisonment: January 30, 2011 While Visiting Family in Iran Charges: Communicating with a Hostile Foreign Government; Receiving Illegitimate Funds Sentence: 10 Years Imprisonment Conditionally released in August 2016
Read More» Name: Farahnaz Misaghian Date of Arrest: April 6, 2015 Charge: Charged as a Religious Minority Practitioner of Bahai Faith. Sentence: 1 Year in Prison and 1 Year Suspended Sentence. She was released in February 2016.
Read More» Directed by the 2011 Presidential Memorandum on International Initiatives to Advance the Human Rights of LGBT Persons , the United States works every day to promote respect for the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) persons both at home and around the world. We do so knowing that, in too many places, people are threatened, tortured, and even killed for their sexual orientation or gender identity. …
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Name: Atena Farghadani Occupation: Cartoonist, Painter. Date of Arrest: January 10, 2015 Charge: “Coolition Against the Security of the System”, “Propaganda Against the System”, “Insulting the Leader, the President and the Members of Parliament” and “Charged for Artwork Expressing Political Defiance”. Sentence: 12 Years and 9 Months in Prison She was released on June 3rd, 2016.
Read More» Name: Hossein Ronaghi Maleki Occupation: Blogger Date of Imprisonment: December 2009 Charge: Spreading Propaganda Against the Regime, Membership of the Internet Group “Iran Proxy”, Insulting the Iranian Supreme Leader, Insulting the President. Sentence: 15 Years He was released in May 2016.
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Name: Mohammad Ali Dadkhah Occupation: Human Rights Lawyer Date of Imprisonment: September 2012 Charge: Spreading Propaganda Against the System Through Interviews with Foreign Media and Membership in the Defenders of Human Rights Center Sentence: Nine Years, 10 Year Ban on Teaching and Practicing Law
Read More» Name: Nazanin Khosravani Occupation: Journalist Date of Imprisonment: November, 2009 Charges: “Assembly and Collusion for Activities Against National Security and Propaganda Against the Regime” Sentence: Six Years
Read More» Name: Mohammad Seifzadeh Occupation: Human Rights Lawyer Date of Imprisonment: October 2010 Charge: Collusion and Assembly with Intent to Disrupt Internal Security; Propagation Activities Against the Regime; and Establishing the Center for Human Rights Defenders Sentence: Nine Years in Prison and Banned from Practicing Law for 10 Years He was released in March 2016.
Read More» Name: Madjid Tavakkoli Occupation: Student Activist Date of Imprisonment: December 7, 2009 Charge: Participating in an Illegal Gathering; Propaganda Against the System; and Insulting Officials Sentence: Eight and a Half Years He was released in May 2015
Read More» As half the planet, women make immeasurable contributions to our world. They are entrepreneurs, farmers, educators, scientists, artists, soldiers, mothers, heads of state – the list is endless. Without them, economies would collapse, political systems would deteriorate, and families and communities would fall apart. Yet in too many places, women are treated as second-class citizens. …
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Secretary Kerry: This is a terrific moment to be able to welcome Randy Berry as our first special envoy for human rights of LGBT persons. So this appointment really couldn’t happen at a more important time. And frankly, everybody being here today and my privilege of actually celebrating this appointment is really a way of sending …
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The Ghoryan Women’s Saffron Association is an organization born out of desperation. Bordering Iran in Afghanistan’s arid Herat province, Ghoryan is a place where fields yield little and men struggle to find work. Saffron — the world’s most expensive spice — has grown here for centuries, but Ghoryan’s saffron farmers, at least 700, have long …
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I could not be more proud to announce Randy Berry as the first-ever Special Envoy for the Human Rights of LGBT Persons. We looked far and wide to find the right American official for this important assignment. Randy’s a leader. He’s a motivator. But most importantly for this effort, he’s got vision. Wherever he’s served …
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32-year-old Nadia Bano is from the Punjab area of Pakistan. Nadia had been a happily married woman with three children. But everything changed when her brother refused to marry Nadia’s sister-in-law, causing her-in-laws to throw acid on her face due to their frustration and anger. Her face was severely burnt, and she lost one of …
Read More» As officials and diplomats from across the planet convene in New York for the 69th UN General Assembly (UNGA) this week, some may not be thinking about how to solve challenges faced by women and girls. But they should be. With data clearly showing the important role women and girls play in peace and prosperity, …
Read More» Name: Hootan Dolati Occupation: Engineer, Journalist Date of Arrest: March 15, 2013 Charge: “Propaganda Against the State” and “Membership in a Banned Group” Sentence: One and a Half Years in Prison, and a Five Year Ban on Membership in Any Political Party or Social Group He was released in September 2014.
Read More» Name: Mohammad-Amin Hadavi Occupation: Publisher, Entrepreneur Date of Imprisonment: December 31, 2011 Charge: “Gathering and Colluding to Disturb National Security” Sentence: Six Years in Prison He was released in July 2016.
Read More» Name: Omid Behrouzi Occupation: Lawyer Date of Imprisonment: September 8, 2011 Charge: “Forming an Illegal Group,” “Acting Against National Security,” “Propaganda Against the Regime,” “Insulting the Leader of the Islamic Republic,” “Disturbing Public Order” Sentence: Seven and a Half Years in Prison. He was released in March 2015. Behrouzi was among the dozens of prisoners of conscience held in Evin Prison …
Read More» Name: Emad Bahavar Occupation: Student, Political Activist Date of Sentence: January 10, 2011 Charge: “Propaganda Against the State,” “Insulting the Supreme Leader” Sentence: Seven Years in Prison, and a Ten Year Ban on Political Activities, Media Activities, and Internet Activities He was released in December 2014. Bahavar was among the dozens of prisoners of conscience held in Evin Prison Ward 350 reported …
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Name: Khosro and Massoud Kordpour Occupation: Journalists Date of Imprisonment: March 7 and 9, 2013 Charge: “Propaganda Against the Regime” and “Assembly and Collusion” Sentence: 6 Years Imprisonment and 3.5 Years Imprisonment, Respectively. Massoud was released in December 2015. Khosro was released in September 2017.
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Name: Abdolreza Ghanbari Occupation: Persian Literature Teacher Date of Imprisonment: December 27, 2009 Charge: Moharebeh (“Enmity Towards God”) Through Participation in the Street Gatherings on Ashura Day and Contact with Enemy Groups Sentence: Death, as of September 2013 – Ghanbari’s Death Sentence has Reportedly Been Commuted to 10 Years Imprisonment. He was released in March 2016.
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Name: Ayatollah Mohammad Hossein Kazemeini Bouroujerdi Occupation: Clergy Date of Imprisonment: October 7, 2006 Charge: Around 30, Including moharebeh (“Enmity Towards God”); Acts Against National Security and Having Links with Anti-Revolutionaries and Spies Sentence: Eleven Years in Jail From January 2017 on medical leave from prison.
Read More» Name: Vahid Asghari Occupation: Blogger and Information Technology Student Date of Imprisonment: May 2008 Charge: Hosting “Obscene and Blasphemous Websites” Sentence: Death; Sentenced in January 2012 He was released in April 2016.
Read More» Name: Shiva Nazar Ahari Occupation: Journalist Date of Imprisonment: September 8, 2012 Charge: “Enmity Against God” Sentence: Four Years in Prison
Read More» Name: Nassour Naghipour Occupation: Student, Website Manager Date of Imprisonment: July 9, 2012 Charge: Propaganda Against the Regime Sentence: Seven Years in Prison He was released in July 2015.
Read More» Name: Sayed Ziaoddin (Zia) Nabavi Date of Imprisonment: June 2009 Occupation: Student Charge: Moharebeh (“Enmity Towards God”) Current Status: Imprisoned Sentence: 10 Years He was released in January 2018. Nabavi co-founded the Advocacy Council for the Right to Education, an organization of students barred from studying as a result of their political activities, in 2007. He was arrested shortly after Iran’s disputed …
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Name: Ali Akbar Mohammadzadeh Occupation: Student Activist Date of Imprisonment: February 2011 Charge: Propagating Against the State; Assembly and Collusion Against the State; and Disrupting Public Order Sentence: Six Years in Prison
Read More» Name: Bahareh Hedayat Occupation: Student and Women’s Rights Activist Date of Imprisonment: December 31, 2009 Charge: Insulting the Supreme Leader; Insulting the President; Actions Against National Security; Propagation of Falsehoods; and Colluding for Assembly Sentence: Seven and a Half Years Plus Two Years from a Previously Suspended Sentence She was released in September 2016.
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Name: Adnan Hassanpour Occupation: Journalist Date of Imprisonment: January 25, 2007 Charge: Espionage, “Acting Against National Security,” and “Enmity Against God” Sentence: 15 Years in Prison He was released from jail on September 10th, 2016
Read More» Name: Hakimeh Shokri Occupation: Human Rights Activist Date of Imprisonment: October 22, 2012 Charge: “Acting Against National Security” and “Propaganda Against the Regime” Sentence: 3 Years in Prison She was released in July 2015.
Read More» Name: Ahmed Reza Hashempour Occupation: Website Administrator Date of Imprisonment: 2007 Charge: Membership in Anti-Religion and Blasphemous Websites Sentence: Life in Prison
Read More» Name: Faran Hesami Occupation: Teacher Date of Imprisonment: July 15, 2012 Charge: Membership in the Baha’i Community, “Colluding to Disturb National Security” Sentence: Five Years in Prison She was released on April 15, 2016
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Name: Abdolfattah Soltani Occupation: Human Rights Lawyer Date of Imprisonment: September 2011 Charge: Propagation Activities Against the Regime; Establishing the Center for Human Rights Defenders; and Endangering National Security Sentence: 13 Years Imprisonment and 20 Years Ban from Practice of the Law
Read More» Name: Majid Dorri Date of Imprisonment: July 9, 2009 Occupation: Student Activist Charge: Moharebeh (“Enmity Towards God”); Acting Against National Security; Disrupting Public Order; and Relations with the Mojahedin-e Khalgh Organization Current Status: Imprisoned Sentence: 6 and a Half Years He was released in June 2014. Majid Dorri is a student activist who has been …
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Name: Afshin Karampour Occupation: Human Rights Lawyer Date of Imprisonment: September 2011 Charge: “Spreading Propaganda Against the System, Insulting the Supreme Leader, and Complicity to Disrupt Public Order” Sentence: Seven Years and Six Months He was released in Mars 2015.
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Name: Masoud Bastani Date of Imprisonment: July 5, 2009 Occupation: Reformist Journalist Charge: Propagating Against the Regime and Congregating and Collusion to Create Anarchy Current Status: Imprisoned Sentence: Six Years He was released in July 2015. Husband of jailed activist Mahsa Amrabadi, Bastani is an Iranian reformist journalist. Throughout his career, he was arrested several times, most recently on July 5, 2009. …
Read More» Name: Arash Sadeghi Occupation: Student Date of Arrest: June 7th, 2016 Charge: “collusion against national security,” “propaganda against the state,” “spreading lies in cyberspace” and “insulting the Founder of the Islamic Republic” Sentence: 15 years
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Name: Mohammad Tavassoli Occupation: Reformist Politician Date of Imprisonment: November 2011 Charge: Disrupting National Security and Propagation Activities Against the Regime Sentence: 11 Years in Prison and a Five Year Ban on Political and Press-Related Activities
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Name: Abolfazl Abedini Occupation: Journalist, Activist Date of Imprisonment: Unavailable Charge: Propaganda Against the Regime Sentence: 12 Years in Prison
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Name: Kasra Nouri Occupation: Unavailable Date of Imprisonment: March 14, 2012 Charge: “Propaganda Against the Regime”, “Acting Against National Security”, “Membership in a Deviant Group” and “Interviews with Foreign Media” Sentence: Four Years and Four Months Jail He was released in October 2016. Then again, after being arrested in the incidents of “Golestan the 7th” he was sentenced to 12 years …
Read More» Name: Mahboubeh Karami Occupation: Journalist Date of Imprisonment: May 15, 2011 Charge: “Assembly with Intent to Harm the State” and “Propagating Against the Regime” Sentence: Three Years in Prison
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Name: Fariba Kamalabadi, Jamaloddin Khanjani, Afif Naeimi, Saeid Rezaie, Behrouz Tavakkoli, Vahid Tizfahm, and Mahvash Sabet Occupation: Members of Yaran, the Coordinating Group for the Iranian Baha’i Community Date of Imprisonment: May 14, 2008 (Mahvash Sabet March 8, 2008) Charge: Espionage for Israel, Insulting Religious Sanctities, and Propaganda Against the Islamic Republic Sentence: 20 Years in jail, their sentence was later …
Read More» Name: Zahra Rahnavard Occupation: Reformist Politician Date of Imprisonment: February 2011 Charge: Not Charged Sentence: None Current Status: House Arrest
Read More» Name: Saeed Malekpour Occupation: Software Developer Date of Imprisonment: 2008 Charge: Propaganda Against the Regime by Designing Pornographic Sites; Insulting Sanctities; Insulting the Leader and the President; and Corruption on Earth Sentence: Death
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Name: Mansoureh Behkish Occupation: Member of Mothers for Peace Date of Imprisonment: June 12, 2011 Charge: Assembling and Conspiring with the Intent to Harm National Security; Propaganda Against the System Sentence: Four and a Half Years Only a few months before the end of her original sentence, in February 2018 she was once again sentenced to 7.5 years in jail …
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Name: Abdollah Momeni Occupation: Student Activist Date of Imprisonment: June 2009 Charge: Presence at Post-Election Gatherings and Activities Against National Security Sentence: Eight Years Current Status: Released
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Name: Nargess Mohammadi Occupation: Journalist Date of Imprisonment: April 21, 2012 Charge: Assembly and Collusion Against National Security; Membership in the Center for Human Rights Defenders; and Propaganda Against the Regime Sentence: Sixteen years in jail
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Name: Mahsa Amrabadi Occupation: Journalist Date of Imprisonment: June 2009 Charge: Propaganda Against the Regime Sentence: Five Years, Four Suspended Current Status: Released on September 2013
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