Iran intensifies repression of citizens following conflict with Israel

In the aftermath of the 12-day war between Israel and Iran, the Iranian government has escalated its repression against Iranian citizens, particularly targeting political dissidents and activists. Narges Mohammadi, a renowned human rights advocate and Nobel laureate, has raised alarms over this troubling trend, highlighting a significant increase in executions and arrests since the conflict began. Mohammadi argues that the regime is leveraging the war's fallout to distract from long-standing issues of repression within the country, aiming to instill fear and maintain control over the population through violent means. Mohammadi's statements reflect a dire reality for many in Iran, especially those who defy the authoritarian regime. She detailed how the environment within Iranian prisons has worsened, describing Evin Prison’s current conditions as highly securitized and dangerous for inmates. Following the war, there have been numerous accounts of prisoner transfers conducted under militarized conditions, leading to reports from families of political prisoners describing unbearable circumstances in facilities like Qarchak Prison. The Iranian authorities have framed these crackdowns as necessary for national security, utilizing allegations of espionage and infiltration linked to Israel. Rather than a victory, Mohammadi contends that the current situation poses a greater human rights threat than before the conflict. She predicts that the government’s suppression of civil society will intensify, particularly against youth and activists. Despite the regime's efforts to stifle dissent, she remains committed to her activism. Mohammadi is currently out of prison on medical furlough but has faced pressure to return, including harassment from intelligence agents targeting her friends and family. Analysts have noted that Iran is increasingly adopting a model reminiscent of North Korea, with the regime employing total internet blackouts and heightened censorship to isolate its citizens and prevent dissent. Reports indicate that the Iranian public is increasingly fearful, as random stops conducted by authorities lead to confiscation or scrutiny of personal devices, further suppressing free expression and criticism of the government. As Mohammadi pointedly remarks, the conflict has exacerbated an already precarious situation for democracy advocates within the country, compelling them to amplify their efforts even as repressive measures grow more severe.