DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Narges Mohammadi, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, was granted a temporary release from prison on Wednesday following a complicated surgery in Iran where a portion of a bone from her right leg was removed amidst concerns about cancer, according to supporters advocating for her cause.
The advocacy group campaigning for Mohammadi’s release announced that she would be free for 21 days, but noted that she would eventually need to fulfill the rest of her prison sentence afterward. The Iranian government has not yet confirmed the specifics of her medical leave. Mohammadi, who is 52 years old, has been a longstanding symbol of the fight for human rights, and her supporters insist that her temporary release should transition into permanent freedom.
In a statement, the campaign emphasized, “A 21-day suspension of Narges Mohammadi’s sentence is insufficient.” They highlighted her need for specialized medical treatment and a safe, sanitary recovery environment as fundamental human rights, stressing that doctors have pointed out that at least three months of recovery time is essential for her healing process.
The advocacy group’s statement further asserted, “Narges should never have faced imprisonment for her legitimate peaceful efforts advocating for human and women’s rights—the very activism that garnered her the Nobel Peace Prize.” Mohammadi is currently serving sentences amounting to nearly 14 years due to charges related to collusion and propaganda against the state. Despite her frequent arrests by Iranian authorities and extended periods of incarceration, she has remained committed to her activism, including support for the nationwide protests led by women in response to the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022.
Supporters have pointed out that Mohammadi has experienced several heart attacks while being imprisoned and underwent emergency surgery in 2022. Recently, in November, her lawyer revealed that doctors discovered a potentially cancerous bone lesion, which necessitated her recent surgical operation.
Rebecca Vincent from Reporters Without Borders expressed relief over Mohammadi’s temporary release, calling it “an important step in the right direction,” but shared concerns about her health condition. Vincent urged Iranian authorities to allow Mohammadi sufficient time at home to fully recuperate.
The broader context surrounding this situation includes a struggling Iranian economy, which has been plagued by sanctions from Western countries for several years. The ongoing devaluation of the national currency, coupled with government corruption, has led to public outcry and widespread protests, alongside intensified government crackdowns against dissent. Added to these tensions is the anticipation of President-elect Donald Trump’s return to office in January, which has reignited fears about a potential resurgence of stringent policies towards Iran.