Ministry of Culture says six out of eight detained artists have been released on bail

The Deputy Minister of Arts of the Islamic Republic's Ministry of Culture stated that six out of the eight individuals detained from the Robro Mansion have been released on bail, and efforts to secure the release of the remaining two are ongoing. The names of those released have not been disclosed in official reports. Naderah Rezaei mentioned that performing music at that venue requires an official permit from the Ministry of Culture, and since it was 'without a performance permit', there is 'no possibility for official defense'. Since its establishment, the Islamic Republic has imposed restrictive measures against artists, particularly women, and censorship and limitation are inseparable parts of the ruling policies in the Islamic Republic. Continuing the Islamic Republic's repression against Iranian citizens, especially women, government agents arrested Hiwa Seyfizadeh, a classical Iranian music singer, during a live performance at the 'Robro' mansion in Tehran on Thursday evening, March 9. This 27-year-old artist had supported protesters during the demonstrations against the killing of Mahsa (Zhina) Amini by releasing songs without compulsory hijab. Ms. Seyfizadeh has used optional attire 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 news site 'Kolber News', 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 the 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 misogynistic laws and policies of the Islamic Republic began from the early days of the establishment of this theocratic government 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 compulsory 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.