Jailed Iranian human rights campaigner Narges Mohammadi's health has dramatically worsened. Her family fears she is dying. She was recently moved from prison to a local hospital. This move came after weeks of declining health and denied medical care.
The 54-year-old Nobel laureate suffers from severe health issues. These include low blood pressure and a past heart attack. Her brother, Hamidreza Mohammadi, who lives in Norway, stated that her existing conditions make treatment in Zanjan prison impossible. He expressed deep concern, waking up each day dreading the worst news. Mohammadi's family has been denied access to her and proper medical attention for 140 days. Her supporters call this prolonged imprisonment a deliberate act to silence dissent.
This situation highlights the ongoing human rights concerns in Iran. Mohammadi was awarded the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize for her tireless efforts. She fought for the rights of women. She also campaigned against the oppression of citizens. Her arrest in December followed her continued criticism of the Iranian government. Despite multiple arrests and sentences totaling 31 years and 154 lashes, she persisted in her activism. The international community has expressed alarm. However, the Iranian government has not publicly responded to these accusations.
The Narges Mohammadi Foundation, managed by her family, confirmed her transfer to a Zanjan hospital. The statement cited a "catastrophic deterioration in her health." Jorgen Watne Frydnes, head of the Nobel Peace Prize committee, also voiced his concern. He stated that Mohammadi's life is at serious risk. Her brother believes international focus has shifted due to global conflicts. He noted that "oil is now more important than freedom." This sentiment suggests a prioritization of geopolitical interests over human rights advocacy.
Mohammadi's previous arrests include serving a 13-year sentence. She was briefly released in December 2024 for medical reasons. She was arrested again in Mashhad last December after a speech. Her family reported she was beaten during this arrest. In February, a Revolutionary Court added another seven-and-a-half years to her sentence. This latest development raises urgent questions about international pressure on Iran. Decisions about her future care will depend on both Iranian authorities and international human rights organizations. Her continued imprisonment and lack of adequate medical care remain critical issues for global attention.