Iranian authorities have finally allowed imprisoned Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi to be hospitalized after almost nine weeks of feeling unwell, a group campaigning for her release has announced. The Free Narges Coalition is demanding that Ms Mohammadi be granted a medical furlough to receive comprehensive treatment for her multiple health conditions. The group emphasizes that simply transferring her to the hospital will not address the severe health issues caused by months of neglect and deprivation.
Ms Mohammadi, 52, has been serving a combined prison sentence of 45 months at Evin Prison, which houses political prisoners and those with Western ties. In January, an additional 15 months were added to her sentence after she was found guilty of promoting “propaganda” against the government. On Saturday, Iranian authorities issued a further six-month sentence against her after she staged a protest against the execution of another political prisoner in the women’s ward of Evin Prison on August 6.
The imprisoned human rights activist is suffering from heart disease, and according to a medical report issued in September, the main artery of her heart has developed a serious complication. Her condition is said to be grave, and the Free Narges Coalition is demanding that she be granted unconditional release and full access to medical care.
Nobel Laureate Narges Mohammadi (Image via Getty)
Ms Mohammadi’s case has captured international attention, with many calling for her release. She is the 19th woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize and the second Iranian woman after human rights activist Shirin Ebadi, who was awarded the prize in 2003. Despite numerous arrests and years behind bars, Ms Mohammadi has continued to keep up her activism, advocating for prisoners’ rights and women’s rights in Iran.
The Free Narges Coalition has stressed that Ms Mohammadi’s health is at risk due to the harsh conditions in Evin Prison. The group has called on the Iranian authorities to take immediate action to address her health concerns and to work towards her unconditional release. The international community has expressed concern over Ms Mohammadi’s treatment, and many have called on Iran to respect her human rights and release her from prison.
As the international community continues to raise awareness about Ms Mohammadi’s case, the need for her release and proper medical treatment is more urgent than ever. It is imperative that the Iranian authorities take immediate action to ensure Ms Mohammadi’s health and safety, and to uphold her human rights and those of other political prisoners in Iran.
