The U.S. Calls Reports of Sexual Assault Against Nazila Maroufian During Arrest 'Disgusting'

On Friday, September 8, the U.S. State Department described the Islamic Republic's 'systematic' use of sexual violence as 'disgusting' in a post on social media platform X. It stated, 'The courage of Iranians in the face of such reprehensible acts aimed at intimidating them is increasingly evident.' The U.S. State Department referred to reports of sexual assault against journalist Nazila Maroufian during her arrest as 'sad' and emphasized that 'the Iranian regime's use of systematic sexual violence is designed to instill fear, shame, and silence among victims. However, the United States will continue its efforts to support human rights and fundamental freedoms for the people of Iran and to work with allies and partners to hold accountable those responsible for human rights violations in Iran.' Nazila Maroufian, a journalist who was arrested for the umpteenth time on September 8 following an attack by Islamic Republic forces on her home, revealed in a voice message from Evin Prison on September 16 that she had been 'assaulted' while in 'the worst possible condition.' This journalist, who has gone on a hunger strike in protest against the behavior of government agents, stated that this hunger strike is not only a protest against her own situation but also 'for all the women who are suffering in Iran.' A source close to this political prisoner told Voice of America that during Nazila Maroufian's arrest, 'seven agents' broke down the door and took the journalist 'while she was asleep' in 'her nightgown' and 'beaten her.' Nazila Maroufian, a journalist from Saqqez and a resident of Tehran, was first arrested last year after an interview with Amjad Amini, the father of Mahsa Amini. Nazila Maroufian, the imprisoned journalist, claims she was assaulted and has gone on a hunger strike in protest. Exclusive: Nazila Maroufian's contact with her family; informed source: she is on a 'dry hunger strike.' Nazila Maroufian on the seventh day of her hunger strike: 'I was assaulted in the worst condition.' Bruises on Nazila Maroufian's body; informed source to Voice of America: 'Don't let them destroy her.' Nazila Maroufian was arrested the day after supporting Mahdi Yarahy, with agents using 'beating' during her arrest. There has been widespread domestic and international reaction to the arrest of Mahdi Yarahy; he who stands with his people is not alone. Nazila Maroufian's re-arrest as a protesting journalist; Rajanews declared her crime as 'clear norm-breaking.' Nazila Maroufian after being released on bail: 'Do not accept slavery; you deserve the best.'