Continued Pressure on Media Activists in Iran; Prison Sentences Issued for Two Female Journalists

Following the ongoing pressure on media activists in Iran, news sources reported the issuance of prison sentences for two female journalists, Parisa Salehi and Ghazaleh Zare. The Hengaw Human Rights Organization reported that Parisa Salehi, a journalist, was sentenced to one year in prison by the Islamic Revolutionary Court in Karaj for 'propaganda against the regime.' Ms. Salehi was also sentenced to additional punishments, including exile, a ban on social media activity, and a travel ban, each for two years. The International Federation of Journalists also reported that Ghazaleh Zare, a women's rights journalist, was sentenced to one year in prison by Branch Two of the Islamic Revolutionary Court in Khorramabad for 'propaganda against the regime and blackening' and two years for 'forming groups and associations.' According to reports, this journalist was convicted for holding a book analysis workshop titled 'Unlimited Game' aimed at improving the quality of relationships and business, which was deemed propaganda against the regime and forming a group to act against national security. The International Federation of Journalists also reported that security agents on Wednesday, January 24, visited the home of Elaheh Ramazani Pour, a health journalist in Golestan province, where they searched her home and confiscated her personal and electronic belongings. This federation has again called on the Iranian authorities to immediately release all journalists and media staff imprisoned in Iran. Anthony Bellanger, Secretary-General of the International Federation of Journalists, stated that Iranian authorities 'always target journalists with unjust punishments.' He urged the Iranian judiciary to 'allow journalists to operate freely based on international documents that Iran must adhere to.' The temporary detention order for journalist Ebrahim Rashidi has been extended for another month. The release of statistics on imprisoned journalists worldwide in 2023 shows that Iran and Israel are tied for sixth place with 17 individuals. The end of 400 days of imprisonment for the crime of 'informing' has led to reactions regarding the temporary release of Elaheh Mohammadi and Niloufar Hamedi, and new cases have been filed against them for 'removing hijab' after their release.