Mostafa Azizi Transferred to Evin Prison Medical Facility

Mostafa Azizi, a writer and former producer at Iran's state television, who has been in Evin Prison since February 1, was transferred to the prison's medical facility due to a deterioration in his health. A source close to Mr. Azizi told Radio Farda that the writer collapsed on the evening of Monday, April 12, due to low blood pressure and was taken to the medical facility, but was eventually returned to prison after a few hours. The 53-year-old Azizi suffers from diabetes, heart issues, and rheumatism. His son, Arash Azizi, described his father's health conditions on his Facebook page, stating that these illnesses have made it difficult for Mr. Azizi to endure prison life. After the first month of his detention, where he was held in Ward 2A of Evin Prison, he is now in Ward 8. Mr. Azizi faces charges of 'insulting the leadership, insulting the founder of the Islamic Republic, and propaganda against the regime.' This writer had been residing in Canada since 2010 but returned to Iran last winter to visit his family, shortly before being arrested. According to an informed source, Mostafa Azizi has requested bail once during this time, but the request was denied. Previously, a spokesperson for the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the government is aware of reports regarding Mr. Azizi's detention but cannot provide further information about his case. Mostafa Azizi is the author of a short story collection titled 'I Am Raymond Carver,' published in 2010. He has also produced several programs for Iran's state television, including the series 'Traveler,' a knowledge and intelligence competition, and a competition called 'Effort.' According to the Harana website, the court hearing for his charges will take place on June 1 of this year in Branch 15 of the Revolutionary Court, presided over by Judge Salavati.