The United States condemns the Iranian authorities’ violent assault and unjust detention of several human rights defenders during the October 29 funeral for 16-year-old Armita Geravand.
The United States condemns the Iranian authorities’ violent assault and unjust detention of several human rights defenders during the October 29 funeral for 16-year-old Armita Geravand.
Condemning the Detention of Iranian Human Rights Defenders
PRESS STATEMENT
MATTHEW MILLER, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON
OCTOBER 31, 2023
The United States condemns the Iranian authorities’ violent assault and unjust detention of several human rights defenders during the October 29 funeral for 16-year-old Armita Geravand, who died after reportedly being assaulted on the Tehran metro for not wearing a hijab.
Among those arrested at Armita Geravand’s funeral was renowned human rights lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh, as well as several other peaceful activists. The United States calls for the immediate and unconditional release from prison of Ms. Sotoudeh and others detained unjustly by the regime.
We once again condemn the Iranian regime’s horrific treatment of its own people, including its campaign of violence against the women and girls of Iran. The United States will continue to stand with the brave people of Iran and work with the international community to hold the regime accountable for its human rights abuses at home and abroad.
In the absence of diplomatic or consular relations of the United States of America with the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Swiss government, acting through its Embassy in Tehran, has served as the Protecting Power of the USA in Iran since 21 May 1980. The Swiss Embassy’s Foreign Interests Section provides consular services to U.S. citizens living in or travelling to Iran.
The Swiss Embassy can provide the following services: Reporting the Death of a U.S. Citizen, Passport Services, Report of a Birth Abroad, Local Resources (Notarial Services, Medical Assistance) and Social Security.