Manouchehr Fallah, Political Prisoner, Sentenced to Death

Radio Farda has learned that the Second Branch of the Revolutionary Court in Rasht has sentenced Manouchehr Fallah, one of the detainees from the 'Women, Life, Freedom' protests, to death. Informed sources told Radio Farda on Sunday, February 3, that this branch, presided over by Judge Darvishgheytar, has condemned this political prisoner, who is currently in Lakan Prison in Rasht, to death based on 'Article 687' of the Islamic Penal Code. This article, which has faced significant legal criticism, states that the destruction of public property 'with the intention of disrupting public order and security and opposing the Islamic government' will carry the charge of Moharebeh (waging war against God). Moharebeh is defined as 'using weapons with the intent to harm, steal, or intimidate people' and can lead to a death sentence. The charge of 'Moharebeh or Baghi' was raised in Manouchehr Fallah's case. Radio Farda reported in August that the head of the Second Branch of the Revolutionary Court in Rasht had introduced the charge of 'Baghi or Moharebeh' during a review of this political prisoner's case. Officials at Lakan Prison in Rasht and judicial authorities had previously prevented Manouchehr Fallah's release despite the completion of his sentence. On August 1, Mr. Fallah stated in a statement that he is 'a prisoner of lawlessness and injustice' and announced that despite the fact that a hunger strike 'is another blow to his health,' he has no other way to make his voice heard and will go on a hunger strike. This political prisoner was arrested at Rasht Airport in July 2023 and was sentenced to 22 months in prison in December of the same year for 'insulting the leadership' and 'propaganda against the regime.' He had also gone on a hunger strike in October of the previous year in protest against his prolonged detention and uncertainty regarding his situation.