Arrest of Nobel Laureate Narges Mohammadi Sparks Global Outcry
Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi was taken into custody on Friday, according to her family and the Paris-based foundation that represents her. The prominent Iranian activist was reportedly forcibly detained by security forces while attending a memorial event in Mashhad for lawyer Khosrow Alikordi, who was recently discovered dead in his office under suspicious circumstances.
Her brother, Mehdi Mohammadi, confirmed that the arrest happened during the ceremony and described the encounter as violent. Mashhad—one of Iran’s major cities—has seen heightened security activity, especially in response to public gatherings involving activists and civil society groups.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee criticized the arrest, labeling it “brutal” and calling for Mohammadi’s immediate release. In its official statement, the committee urged the Iranian government to disclose her location, ensure her safety, and free her without conditions, reaffirming its support for those in Iran who peacefully advocate for civil liberties, human rights, and freedom of expression.
A History of Resistance and Repeated Imprisonment
Narges Mohammadi is one of Iran’s most recognized voices for human rights, women’s rights, and political freedom. Over the past two decades, she has spent significant periods inside Tehran’s notorious Evin Prison, known for holding political prisoners and journalists. Her combined sentences exceed 30 years, linked to charges such as endangering national security and spreading critical views against the state.
In late 2024, Mohammadi received a short medical release after undergoing surgery to address a lesion in her right leg that doctors feared might be cancerous. Though she was initially expected to return to prison after recovering, she remained on furlough until her unexpected arrest on Friday.
Despite imprisonment, health complications, and repeated threats, Mohammadi has maintained an active role in international human rights discussions. Through letters, written statements, and remote participation, she has continued to highlight the systematic violations occurring in Iran.
In a commentary published in Time magazine last week, she wrote that stability in Iran remains impossible while the state exercises control over intimate aspects of citizens’ lives. She described the constant presence of surveillance, censorship, arbitrary detention, and intimidation as barriers to peace and security for ordinary people.
During a televised interview while on medical leave, she reaffirmed her determination to push for democratic reforms. She stated that regardless of being inside Evin Prison or outside its walls, her commitment to justice, equality, and freedom would not change.
Calls for Release and Ongoing Reports of Abuse
The Narges Foundation reported that several other activists attending Alikordi’s memorial were also detained, although the exact circumstances remain unclear. The foundation demanded the unconditional release of everyone arrested during the event.
Mohammadi has long documented reports of mistreatment inside Iranian detention centers. Over the years, she has detailed accounts of solitary confinement, threats, and instances of sexual violence against female detainees—allegations that Iranian authorities consistently deny.
Beyond her activism, Mohammadi is the mother of teenage twins, Kiana and Ali. They accepted her Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo on her behalf. Her husband, Taghi Rahmani—himself a former political prisoner—has described her as a tireless advocate with unshakable courage. Their son has publicly expressed pride in her, acknowledging the sacrifices their family has made but also the strength they have gained from her example.
