Jailed Iranian activist Narges Mohammadi, recently honored with the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize for her tireless advocacy for women’s rights and freedom of expression, has embarked on a hunger strike. This courageous act comes as Mohammadi faces heart and lung issues while being held in Tehran’s Evin prison since 2021. Despite her deteriorating condition, she has been denied permission to leave the prison due to her refusal to wear a hijab, according to her family’s statement on social media. Mohammadi’s hunger strike aims to draw attention to the inadequate medical care for sick inmates and the compulsory hijab policy for women.
The Urgent Need for Medical Care:
Mohammadi’s family has expressed grave concern over her health and the urgent need for medical attention. They have asserted that she requires an emergency hospital transfer due to her deteriorating condition. The Iranian authorities’ refusal to allow her medical treatment because of her objection to wearing a hijab is distressing. Mohammadi’s family holds Iran accountable for any consequences resulting from the lack of medical care. Her husband revealed that she plans to sustain herself solely on water mixed with sugar or salt during the hunger strike.
International Concern and Swift Action:
The Norwegian Nobel Committee, represented by Berit Reiss-Andersen, has joined the chorus of concern for Mohammadi’s well-being. Reiss-Andersen released a statement expressing deep concern over the inhumane treatment of female inmates, who are required to wear a hijab in order to receive medical care. She implored Iranian authorities to provide Mohammadi and other female prisoners with the necessary medical assistance they urgently require.
Mohammadi’s Courageous Activism:
As the deputy head of the non-governmental organization Defenders of Human Rights Center, Mohammadi has endured multiple incarcerations over the past decade on charges such as disseminating anti-state propaganda. Her efforts were recognized by the Nobel Peace Prize committee, who awarded her the prestigious honor in October 2023. Despite her imprisonment, Mohammadi remains steadfast in her belief that this recognition will bolster Iran’s pro-democracy movement and inspire increased unity and organization within it.
The Struggle for Women’s Rights in Iran:
The enforced scrutiny of women’s attire and social interactions in Iran has been an enduring issue. The tragic case of Mahsa Amini, who died at the age of 22 after being arrested by the “morality police,” ignited a surge of protest. Thousands of demonstrators rallied in the streets, demanding justice for Amini and denouncing the oppression of women within the country. Mohammadi illustrated her solidarity from within prison by detailing how she and her fellow detainees organized their own acts of defiance.
Despite the intensity of the protests, Iranian authorities, emphasizing their conservatism, upheld the hijab policy. In an alarming move, Iran’s parliament passed legislation in September that increased penalties for women who refuse to wear the hijab, with possible prison sentences of up to 10 years for activists who protest against it. Women in Iran continue to face significant threats from conservative groups and authorities, with instances of violence and even death occurring as a result.
Narges Mohammadi’s hunger strike and her unwavering commitment to women’s rights and freedom of expression in Iran have captured the attention of the world. As the second Iranian woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, following in the footsteps of Shirin Ebadi, Mohammadi is an inspiration to many despite her current confinement. The international community must amplify its voice in urging the Iranian authorities to provide immediate medical care and address the pressing concerns surrounding women’s rights. Only then can we support and empower the courageous individuals like Narges Mohammadi who strive for justice, equality, and positive change in their society.
Market Capital Research 