Iran has released female journalists Niloufar Hamedi and Elaheh Mohammadi, who were imprisoned for their coverage of the death of Mahsa Amini, an event that ignited nationwide protests.
Hamedi and Mohammadi, aged 31 and 36 respectively, were released on bail from Tehran’s Evin prison, each paying 100 billion rials ($192,307).
The reformist Shargh newspaper reported and confirmed the news with other Iranian media. While they currently appeal their multi-year prison sentences, they remain free pending the appeals court’s decision. However, they are subject to a travel ban during this period.
Both journalists, a photographer for Shargh newspaper and a reporter for Ham Mihan newspaper, were arrested following the death of Mahsa Amini in September 2022. Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian Kurd, had been detained for allegedly breaching the country’s dress code and died in custody.
Hamedi was arrested after visiting the hospital where Amini was treated and sharing a photo of Amini’s grieving family on social media. Mohammadi was detained for her coverage of Amini’s funeral, which escalated into a protest.
In October, Iran’s judiciary website, Mizan Online, reported that the journalists were convicted of collaborating with the United States, conspiring against state security, and spreading propaganda against the Islamic Republic. Mohammadi received a six-year prison term, while Hamedi was sentenced to seven years for the same offences. Additionally, both faced five-year sentences for conspiracy and one year for propaganda, to be served concurrently.
The release of Hamedi and Mohammadi occurred amid a larger clampdown on media in Iran following protests sparked by Amini’s death. Reports indicate that since the start of the protests, over 90 journalists have been questioned or arrested, leading to numerous casualties and arrests. The Iranian authorities have accused the protestors of engaging in “riots” purportedly instigated by Western entities.
