Iran Adds to Imprisonment of Nobel Laureate Narges Mohammadi on Allegations of Propaganda

Narges Mohammadi, an advocate for human rights and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate currently held in Tehran’s Evin Prison, has reportedly received an additional 15-month sentence for allegedly spreading propaganda against the Islamic Republic. The announcement was made by her family on Instagram, revealing that the new sentence was issued on December 19. This development follows Mohammadi’s refusal to attend court sessions. The verdict not only imposes a two-year ban on her ability to travel abroad but also restricts her from participating in political and social groups and possessing a mobile phone. Additionally, she is required to reside outside Tehran, indicating the possibility of serving the sentence in another province.

Mohammadi, who is already serving a 30-month term on charges such as spreading propaganda, disobedience in prison, and defamation of authorities, has been a target of the Iranian government's disapproval, particularly after being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in October. This recognition acknowledged her years of activism, despite facing a sustained campaign against her. As the 19th woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize and the second Iranian woman after Shirin Ebadi in 2003, Mohammadi has consistently engaged in activism, enduring multiple arrests and imprisonments.

In November, she initiated a hunger strike to protest the denial of medical care to herself and fellow inmates. Additionally, she expressed opposition to the mandatory headscarves for women in Iran. Mohammadi, a leading figure in women-led protests sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini last year, continues to challenge Iran’s theocratic government. Amini's detention and subsequent death, attributed to her refusal to adhere to authorities' headscarf preferences, fueled nationwide protests against the compulsory hijab in Iran—a symbol of piety and modesty for observant Muslim women. Despite facing increased government scrutiny, more women have chosen not to wear the mandatory hijab.