NUJ condemns jailing of Iranian journalists
The union has strongly condemned the sentences imposed on two Iranian journalists, Niloofar Hamedi and Elaheh Mohammadi, for reporting on the death of Mahsa Amini, whose death in police custody led to national protests.
Séamus Dooley, NUJ assistant general secretary, said:
“The National Union of Journalists condemns absolutely the long sentences handed on the trumped up charges of collaborating with the United States and conspiring against the state because they reported on the death of Mahsa Amini, who was killed in police custody after being picked up for allegedly failing to wear her headscarf ‘properly’.
“These brave women were simply doing their jobs as journalists. We will continue to with work the International Federation of Journalists to lobby the UN and international community to call out the Iranian authorities and the persecution of journalists in Iran and those working in the UK who have been subjected to death threats and intimidation.”
Niloufar Hamedi was sentenced to a total of 13 years which, under Iran’s judicial system can be reduced to seven years, while Elaheh Mohammadi was handed 12 years, which can be reduced to six. The women have been held in custody since last September. The death of Mahsa Amini sparked demonstrations throughout Iran, resulting in a violent crackdown by the authorities. In May, the United Nations awarded them both its top prize for press freedom “for their commitment to truth and accountability”. This is a preliminary sentencing that can be appealed in 20 days.