Iran Court Hands 20+ Years of Prison to Five Women Activists

The Iranian judiciary has collectively sentenced five women activists from northern Gilan province to a total of over 20 years and seven months in prison.

The women, known for their work in media and environmental fields, have been identified as Anahita Dostdar, Nina Golestani, Rozita Rajaee, Anahita Hejazi, and Nagin Edaltakhah.

According to a report from the Hengaw Organization for Human Rights, each of the five women has been sentenced to three years, six months, and one day for "Assembly and Collusion," with an additional seven months and 16 days for "propaganda against the Islamic Republic." 

Judge Mehdi Raskhi of the Third Branch of the Revolutionary Court in Rasht delivered the sentences, which have been officially sent to the defendants.

The case has drawn particular attention due to the backgrounds of the five women involved. Rozita Rajaee is a known author, while Anahita Hijazi manages the Anna Animal Safe House in Rasht.

The women's legal troubles began on November 11, 2023, when Iranian security forces arrested them. 

After a brief detention in Lakan Rasht Prison, they were released, only to face the severe sentences later.