Tabarzadi: Arrest and Hunger Strike

Reports from Iran indicate that Heshmatollah Tabarzadi, Secretary General of the "Democratic Front of Iran" and spokesperson for "Solidarity for Democracy and Human Rights in Iran," has gone on a hunger strike following his recent arrest. Heshmatollah Tabarzadi, the editor of the banned publications "Payam Daneshjuyi Basiji," "Neday Daneshju," "Hoviyat Khod," and "Greport Rooz," has been in detention and prison since 1995. In an interview with Radio Farda, Abtin Tabarzadi, Heshmatollah's son, confirmed that his father is indeed on a hunger strike, a fact also verified by the judge in his case. Unfortunately, he remains in custody, which has raised concerns for the family. When asked why Mr. Tabarzadi was taken to prison, Abtin explained that a summons was issued by the Evin Prosecutor's Office before Nowruz (Persian New Year). His father refused to accept the summons, and the officers indicated that failure to appear could lead to his arrest. The summons was believed to be related to conversations about his activities concerning a livelihood campaign and interviews he had conducted. Abtin expressed hope that his father's detention would not be prolonged, as he had not committed any act warranting a new sentence. He noted that keeping someone in custody for more than two weeks requires a legal basis and a case to be formed, which has not yet occurred. Regarding the status of his father's case, Abtin mentioned that previous lawyers had faced difficulties and some had to abandon their efforts or leave Iran. Currently, some lawyers have expressed readiness to assist, but the case is at a stage where they cannot take action as the judge has stated that experts are working on the case. It remains unclear when a court session will be held for Mr. Tabarzadi, as no public court has been established. Abtin also mentioned that his father is currently in Evin Prison and had a brief contact with the family three days ago, mainly to check on their well-being. However, he is not allowed to discuss details about his location or the circumstances of his arrest. Abtin expressed concerns about the possibility of meeting his father, as such meetings are typically arranged by the case officials, and initial contacts are usually restricted.