Hiwa Seyfizadeh Arrested During Live Performance; Continuation of Women's Suppression in Iran

Continuing the Islamic Republic's crackdown on Iranian citizens, especially women, government agents arrested Hiwa Seyfizadeh, an Iranian classical music singer, during a live performance at the "Robro" venue in Tehran on Thursday evening, March 9. As of the time of this report, there is no information about the location where this singer, tombak player, actress, and music teacher is being held. The 27-year-old artist had shown support for protesters during the demonstrations against the killing of Mahsa (Jina) Amini by releasing songs without mandatory hijab. Ms. Seyfizadeh has used optional clothing in most of her works. She has sung songs in various Iranian languages and dialects, as well as a song in solidarity with the people of Afghanistan on her Telegram channel. According to the "Kolber News" website, Hiwa Seyfizadeh is the daughter of Mohammad Hossein Seyfizadeh (singer), Masoumeh Mehrali (singer and music teacher), sister of Sarang Seyfizadeh (singer), Arzhang Seyfizadeh (musician and composer), and also a cousin of Haleh Seyfizadeh (singer). Although the reason for Ms. Seyfizadeh's arrest is unclear, the Islamic Republic's approach over nearly half a century of rule over the Iranian people indicates its opposition to women's fundamental freedoms in various social and artistic fields. The struggle of Iranian women against the Islamic Republic's misogynistic laws and policies began from the early days of this theocratic regime's establishment in Iran and has reached its peak with the globalization of the "Women, Life, Freedom" protests. Tahmineh Milani: After "Women, Life, Freedom," the people of Iran realized they are all together. Amnesty International: The death sentence of Sharifeh Mohammadi should be revoked. Arrest of a woman in Tehran after she undressed in protest against the mandatory hijab. A critic: The goal of the Islamic Republic is to suppress independent non-governmental cinema. UN Special Rapporteur: The death sentence of Pakhshan Aziz should be immediately halted. Iran Human Rights Organization: Pakhshan Aziz is at risk of execution.