The Narges Mohammadi prison sentence has been extended after an Iranian court reportedly handed the Nobel Peace Prize laureate an additional seven years behind bars. The ruling has intensified concerns over Iran’s treatment of political prisoners and human rights activists.
According to her lawyer, Mostafa Nili, a Revolutionary Court in Mashhad issued the latest sentence. Iranian authorities have not formally confirmed the decision.
Nili said the court sentenced Mohammadi to six years in prison for gathering and collusion, along with one and a half years for propaganda-related charges. The court also imposed a two-year travel ban.
Narges Mohammadi’s prison sentence adds internal exile
In addition to prison time, the court reportedly ordered a two-year internal exile to the city of Khosf. The combined penalties significantly expand the restrictions placed on the activist.
This new ruling adds to Mohammadi’s previously announced sentence of 13 years and nine months. That earlier conviction concerned charges of state propaganda and collusion against national security.
Taken together, the sentences represent one of the longest prison terms imposed on a prominent Iranian human rights defender in recent years.
Mohammadi was briefly granted furlough in December 2024 due to medical concerns. Despite her temporary release, she continued her advocacy work during that period.
Iranian human rights activist and 2023 Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi was sentenced to over seven years in prison, her lawyers and supporters say https://t.co/NtqWsz1wIN pic.twitter.com/LVj6uW3xxO
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) February 8, 2026Authorities re-arrested her in December 2025, returning her to prison. Since then, legal proceedings have continued to add to her existing sentence.
The 53-year-old activist has faced repeated legal action for her advocacy of civil liberties and opposition to capital punishment.
International condemnation grows
Amnesty International strongly condemned the latest verdict. Secretary General Agnes Callamard described the sentence as a sign of escalating repression.
In a statement, Callamard said the ruling reflected “skyrocketing lethal repression against dissent and protests waged by the authorities.” Rights groups say the case illustrates broader efforts to silence critics.
Mohammadi serves as vice president of the Defenders of Human Rights Centre, an organisation that has long faced pressure from Iranian authorities.
Wider political context in Iran
The sentencing comes amid a renewed crackdown on activists and protesters across Iran. Authorities have intensified enforcement following recent unrest linked to regional and international tensions.
This includes heightened pressure after public reactions to threats made by United States President Donald Trump. Iran is also engaged in negotiations with the United States over a nuclear deal in Oman.
Read: Iran Temporarily Releases Nobel Winner Narges Mohammadi on Medical Grounds
Observers say the political climate has contributed to harsher treatment of dissenting voices inside the country.
Mohammadi has spent years in and out of detention due to her activism. Authorities have repeatedly charged her under national security laws, a common approach used against critics. Human rights organisations argue that her prosecution aims to deter others from speaking out. They continue to call for her immediate and unconditional release.
For now, the Iranian government has not publicly addressed the lawyer’s claims regarding the latest sentence. The case remains under close international scrutiny.
