Background on Narges Mohammadi and Her Significance
Narges Mohammadi, a 53-year-old human rights activist from Iran, was recently detained by Iranian security forces along with at least eight other activists. Mohammadi was awarded the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize for her tireless advocacy for human rights, women’s rights, and freedom of expression in Iran. Her work has made her a prominent figure in the fight for democracy and justice within Iran.
Mohammadi’s History of Detention
Mohammadi has spent a significant portion of the last decade in prison. She was last detained in November 2021 due to her activism. In December 2024, she was granted temporary leave for health reasons due to pulmonary issues and other complications.
EU’s Demand for Release
On Saturday, the European Union (EU) urged Iranian authorities to release Narges Mohammadi and all other unjustly detained individuals exercising their freedom of expression, taking into account her delicate health condition.
“The EU calls on Iranian authorities to release Mrs. Mohammadi, along with all those detained unjustly while exercising their freedom of expression, considering her fragile health status,” stated Anouar El Anouni, spokesperson for European diplomacy.
Recent Arrests and Context
The EU’s call for release comes after the detention of Mohammadi and eight other activists on Friday in the eastern city of Mashhad. The arrests occurred during a ceremony honoring the late lawyer Khosrow Alikordi, who was found dead in his office last week, according to a statement from his foundation.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Narges Mohammadi? Narges Mohammadi is a 53-year-old Iranian human rights activist who was awarded the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize for her advocacy of human rights, women’s rights, and freedom of expression in Iran.
- Why was she detained? Mohammadi was detained along with eight other activists during a ceremony honoring the late lawyer Khosrow Alikordi in Mashhad, Iran.
- What is her health status? Mohammadi has pulmonary issues and other complications, which led to her temporary release in December 2024 for health reasons.
- What is the EU’s stance? The European Union has urged Iranian authorities to release Narges Mohammadi and all other unjustly detained individuals exercising their freedom of expression, considering her fragile health status.
