Iranian Activist Beaten in Prison, Denied Medical Care

Narges Mohammadi, an Iranian human rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has reportedly suffered severe physical abuse while incarcerated, according to her lawyer and family. Mostafa Nili, her legal representative, disclosed that Mohammadi was violently beaten by prison guards last week, raising serious concerns about her health and safety. Despite her injuries, which include visible bruises, Mohammadi has been denied medical attention and a visit with her lawyer. Nili emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that prison authorities have ignored medical recommendations for Mohammadi, who has a pre-existing heart condition. He stated that the prison doctor had ordered her transfer to a hospital, but this request was denied. The lack of medical care has heightened fears for her well-being, as her health continues to deteriorate under harsh prison conditions. In addition to the physical abuse, Mohammadi has faced significant restrictions on her communication and visitation rights. For the past nine months, she has been barred from making phone calls and receiving visits from family members and her legal counsel. This isolation has compounded the distressing circumstances surrounding her imprisonment. The situation has drawn attention to the broader issues of human rights abuses in Iran, particularly against activists and dissenters. Mohammadi's case highlights the urgent need for international scrutiny and intervention to protect the rights of political prisoners in the country.