Iranian Activist Narges Mohammadi Granted Brief Release for Cancer Treatment
Iran’s most prominent human rights activist, Narges Mohammadi, has been granted a temporary reprieve from prison to undergo treatment for suspected cancer. This comes after international pressure and calls from within Iran for her release.
Mohammadi, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, was granted a 21-day suspension of her sentence by an Iranian prosecutor. This limited respite comes after her family and lawyers had requested a three-month medical furlough to allow for her recovery.
“Weeks of enduring excruciating pain in prison, despite tireless advocacy from fellow inmates, human rights organizations, and international figures, highlights the persistent disregard for Narges Mohammadi’s basic human rights and the inhumane treatment she endures,” stated the Narges Mohammadi Foundation.
Mohammadi, who has spend most of the past two decades behind bars, received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2023 "for her fight against the oppression of women in Iran and her fight to promote human rights and freedom for all."
Her family and supporters have been vocal in condemning the Iranian regime for what they believe to be its neglect of her health. They claim that delays in her cancer treatment amount to an attempted “slow death.” Alongside the suspected cancer, Mohammadi has a range of other medical needs including arthritis, disc disease, and a history of heart problems.
"After over a decade of imprisonment, Narges required specialized medical care in a safe, sanitary environment – a basic human right," said the Narges Mohammadi Foundation.
The organization went on to criticize the limited period of release, stating it “falls short of the minimum three months’ recovery time recommended by doctors."
This development comes amidst ongoing international pressure on Iran regarding its human rights record and Mohammadi’s detention. Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton recently called for her immediate release, echoing the sentiments of many human rights organizations.
