Narges Mohammadi, an Iranian human rights defender and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has announced a new hunger strike from her prison cell in solidarity with the Baha'i religious minority in Iran. This news comes as the Nobel Peace Prize is set to be awarded in Oslo. Unable to attend the ceremony due to her imprisonment, Mohammadi will be represented by her twin children, Ali and Kiana, who have been living in exile in France since 2015.
Mohammadi has been a vocal advocate against the compulsory wearing of the hijab and the death penalty in Iran. She has been arrested 13 times and has previously gone on a hunger strike to secure the right to be transferred to a hospital without covering her head. Despite her personal sacrifices and the collective struggle of human rights activists in Iran, Mohammadi's children harbor uncertainties about ever reuniting with her.
The family, currently residing in Paris, views the Nobel Peace Prize as a symbol of their determination to fight for justice. However, they acknowledge that the prize will not directly help secure Mohammadi's release from prison. Mohammadi's husband believes the award will amplify her voice on the international stage, although it may also intensify political pressure on her.
Governments, UN leaders, and human rights organizations are urged to demand the release of Mohammadi, who has been wrongfully imprisoned on fabricated charges. Her health condition is reportedly deteriorating, and she has been denied access to necessary medical treatment. The Baha'i community in Iran, with whom Mohammadi stands in solidarity, faces discrimination and persecution.
