Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe criticizes dangerous Israeli attack on Evin prison

In June 2025, Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a British-Iranian dual national, publicly condemned the Israeli airstrikes that targeted the Evin prison in Iran, expressing her belief that the attacks endangered the lives of prisoners. Prior to her release in March 2022, Zaghari-Ratcliffe endured five years in this notorious correctional facility, where she witnessed the plight of political prisoners associated with the oppressive Iranian regime. Upon learning of the bombings, which damaged the prison's court and wards, she felt horror, fearing for the safety of those still incarcerated, including vulnerable political prisoners with whom she had shared an experience of distress and struggle. Zaghari-Ratcliffe criticized the UK's Labour government for failing to denounce the Israeli actions clearly, alleging that such silence set a dangerous precedent in international relations and could escalate tensions with both Iran and the US. She highlighted how families of prisoners are caught in a precarious situation, experiencing helplessness as the political landscape grows increasingly volatile. Zaghari-Ratcliffe emphasized that her own experiences in the Iranian prison system taught her that freedom cannot be achieved through military actions or publicity stunts but rather through understanding and compassion. The attack prompted significant fear and uncertainty among both former inmates she remains in contact with and their families, further complicating their existing trauma. Moreover, she raised concerns about the subsequent crackdown on civil liberties within Iran, noting that authorities are tightening their grip on dissent through internet censorship and increased arrests. This reflects a broader context where the Iranian regime's repressive measures could intensify, affecting not only political prisoners but also everyday citizens within the country. The Zionist attacks are seen as an attempt to instigate a revolt among political prisoners, but Zaghari-Ratcliffe argues that such bombings do not ensure safety for those inside and could lead to more severe consequences, including relocation or harm coming to them. Families and loved ones of those incarcerated remain in constant fear, worrying about their safety amidst the ongoing conflicts fueled by foreign interventions. Zaghari-Ratcliffe's vocal condemnation of the attack underscores the importance of international law and diplomacy in addressing such issues, as opposed to the use of force, which invariably leads to further suffering and loss of life. Furthermore, she called attention to the ethical responsibilities of governments involved, particularly the UK’s role in these dynamics, while stating that those who have experienced oppression understand the true meaning of freedom better than those in positions of power. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve with tensions between Israel, Iran, and the US, Zaghari-Ratcliffe's insights point to a vital need for a reassessment of strategies employed by those in authority, urging them to prioritize humanity over military tactics.