Ayatollah Mohammad Sajjadi, a judge of Iran's Supreme Court, states that the controversial death sentence of Hashem Aghajari, a university professor, is inconsistent with the charges against him and should be revoked. Aghajari was condemned to heresy last year after stating that Muslims should not blindly follow the ruling clergy. Ayatollah Sajjadi, one of the three judges who reviewed the case, said Aghajari's conviction is baseless. Aghajari's death sentence sparked widespread protests among reformist students across Iran.
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Ayatollah Mohammad Sajjadi, Judge of Iran's Supreme Court, Says Hashem Aghajari's Death Sentence Should Be Revoked - 2003-01-20
Feb 11, 2026
February 11, 2026
1 min read
📰 VOA Persian
📋 Key Takeaway
Ayatollah Mohammad Sajjadi has called for the revocation of Hashem Aghajari's death sentence, arguing it is unjustified. Aghajari was convicted for suggesting that Muslims should not follow religious leaders blindly, leading to significant protests among reformist students. This case highlights ongoing tensions between reformist movements and conservative elements within Iran.
🔍 Quick Context Guide
💡 Bottom Line:
The call to revoke Aghajari's death sentence reflects internal tensions in Iran and the ongoing battle between reformist and conservative ideologies.
👥 Key Players
Ayatollah Mohammad Sajjadi
MENTIONED
Judge of Iran's Supreme Court
"As a high-ranking judicial figure, his opinions can influence legal proceedings and reflect the judiciary's stance on contentious issues."
Hashem Aghajari
MENTIONED
University professor and reformist
"His case symbolizes the struggle for reform and freedom of expression in Iran, making him a significant figure among reformist movements."
📰 What Happened
Ayatollah Mohammad Sajjadi has called for the revocation of Hashem Aghajari's death sentence, arguing that it is unjustified based on the charges of heresy. Aghajari's conviction had previously ignited widespread protests among reformist students.
- Aghajari was sentenced to death for suggesting that Muslims should not follow religious leaders blindly.
- His case has become a focal point for reformist movements and student protests in Iran.
💡 Why It Matters
🇮🇷 For Iran: The revocation of Aghajari's death sentence could signal a shift towards greater tolerance for dissent and reformist ideas within the Iranian judiciary.
🌍 Regional: This case highlights the ongoing struggle between reformist and conservative forces in Iran, which could impact regional stability and governance.
🌐 International: International observers may view this case as indicative of Iran's human rights practices and its approach to freedom of expression.
📚 Background
Iran has a history of political and social unrest, particularly regarding freedom of expression and the role of religion in governance. Aghajari's case exemplifies the clash between reformist aspirations and conservative backlash.
Iranian reform movement
Human rights in Iran
📡 Source:
NEUTRAL
📊 Confidence:
70%
The information appears to be factual and reflects a significant legal opinion, but readers should consider the broader political context in Iran.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
🌐
Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →
Translation confidence: 85%
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