Narges Mohammadi in Conversation with Angelina Jolie: The Islamic Republic Eliminates Opponents by Burying the Truth

Narges Mohammadi, a human rights activist imprisoned in Evin Prison and winner of the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize, spoke with Angelina Jolie, Hollywood actress and former UNHCR ambassador, through family and phone. In this conversation published in Time magazine and shared on Narges Mohammadi's Instagram, she described the current great pain in Iran as the burial of truth by a regime built on lies and deception. She emphasized that 'the government's effort to bury the truth is more terrifying and painful than its actions to eliminate opponents and protesters.' In response to Angelina Jolie's question about the killing of Armita Garavand by mandatory hijab enforcement officers in Tehran, she stated: 'The Islamic Republic sent this horrifying message to society that it can kill our children and even prevent us from shouting out our truth and pain.' Narges Mohammadi also added: 'The pain of this horrific incident was deep and ruthless because the government tried to prevent the revelation of the truth through deception, lies, and duplicity. The Islamic Republic not only failed to act transparently regarding how Armita Garavand died, but also arrested several activists and journalists in connection with this case and her funeral.' This Iranian human rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize winner further noted the role of women and youth in recent protests in Iran, stating: 'Women and youth in Iran are the most radical, widespread, and influential forces for deep change and transition in society.' She expressed optimism about the future of Iran, saying that the victory of the Iranian people over the Islamic Republic 'is not easy, but it is certain.' Narges Mohammadi, who has been sentenced to 10 years and 8 months in prison for her human rights activities, cannot attend the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony scheduled for December 10 in Oslo, Norway. She was announced as the winner of the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize on October 6 this year and remains in Evin Prison. The Tehran prosecutor issued permission for Narges Mohammadi to be transferred to the hospital 'after a week.' The prison authorities prevented her transfer to the hospital due to her not wearing the mandatory hijab. Narges Mohammadi was summoned to the Evin prosecutor's office; she 'did not wear a headscarf' and 'was not allowed to leave' the women's ward. Visitors to Narges Mohammadi during her hospital stay were threatened and arrested. Taghi Rahmani told Voice of America that Narges Mohammadi was sent to the hospital 'without wearing a mandatory hijab.' Narges Mohammadi recounted her hospital visit, saying she went and returned in a jacket and skirt. The Nobel Peace Committee expressed concern about Narges Mohammadi's health status.