In a dramatic turn of events, Iranian Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi was taken to a hospital emergency room twice after her arrest last week, according to her family.
Arrest at a Memorial Gathering
Mohammadi, 53, was detained on Friday while attending a gathering in Mashhad that commemorated the death of human rights lawyer Khosrow Alikordi, the Narges Mohammadi Foundation confirmed. Images circulated by supporters show her speaking to a crowd shortly before security forces moved in. The gathering was described by authorities as a protest that included chanting slogans they called “norm-breaking.”
Family’s Account of Treatment
Mohammadi’s family said they spoke with her briefly by phone after the arrest. During the call, she described repeated blows that required emergency treatment. She was taken to a hospital emergency room twice following her detention.
Government Response
Iranian authorities issued a statement on Saturday saying they had ordered security officials to temporarily detain a number of participants at the gathering. They justified the detainment as preventative, claiming it was to protect Mohammadi from other members of the crowd. The authorities did not publicly comment on the family’s account and did not respond to questions.
Background on Mohammadi’s Activism
Mohammadi is a prominent human-rights activist who has spent decades advocating for women’s rights in Iran. She was awarded the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize for her work. Over the years she has been jailed repeatedly, and she has previously been released on medical grounds.
The Significance of the Arrest
The arrest came shortly after the death of Khosrow Alikordi, a lawyer known for defending human-rights activists. Mohammadi’s presence at the memorial underscored her continued commitment to the cause. The severity of the reported beatings has drawn international attention to the situation.
Emergency Medical Care
Following her arrest, Mohammadi was transported to a hospital emergency room. The family reported that she required emergency treatment for injuries sustained during detention. She was taken to the emergency room twice, indicating the seriousness of her condition.
The Role of Security Forces
Security forces moved in at the gathering, arresting Mohammadi and several other participants. The authorities claimed that the detentions were necessary to prevent further unrest. They cited the chanting of “norm-breaking” slogans as a justification.
Lack of Official Comment
Despite the family’s detailed account, Iranian authorities have not released any public statements about the alleged beatings. They have also not responded to media inquiries regarding the incident.
International Reactions
While the article does not detail responses from international bodies, the arrest of a Nobel laureate has inevitably sparked concern among human-rights organizations worldwide.
The Aftermath for Mohammadi
After the emergency treatment, Mohammadi remains in custody. Her family continues to advocate for her release and for an investigation into the alleged abuse.
Key Takeaways
- Narges Mohammadi was arrested in Mashhad while attending a memorial for Khosrow Alikordi.
- Her family reports she was severely beaten and required emergency care.
- Iranian authorities justified the detentions as preventative, citing “norm-breaking” slogans.
- No official comment has been made by the Iranian government regarding the allegations.
The arrest of a Nobel Peace Prize laureate has intensified scrutiny of Iran’s treatment of human-rights activists. Mohammadi’s case highlights ongoing concerns about the safety and rights of dissenting voices in the country.
