Nobel Laureate Narges Mohammadi Temporarily Released from Iranian Prison After Surgery

Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi was temporarily released from prison on Wednesday following surgery to address a bone lesion in her right leg, The Associated Press reports.

The 52-year-old activist, who has spent years imprisoned for her outspoken criticism of the Iranian government, was seen leaving Evin prison in video footage, shouting, “Hello freedom! Women, life, freedom! Freedom is our right! Long live freedom!”

While Mohammadi’s supporters celebrated her release, they expressed deep concern that the medical furlough is only for 21 days, far short of the three months recommended by her doctors for recovery. The Iranian government has not publicly commented on her release.

Mohammadi is serving a 13-year and nine-month sentence on charges of collusion against state security and propaganda against the government. Despite her imprisonment, she has remained a vocal advocate for human rights, notably supporting the nationwide women-led protests sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022. These protests have seen women openly defying the mandatory hijab law.

Her supporters had previously highlighted her deteriorating health, including multiple heart attacks suffered while in prison and an emergency surgery in 2022. Last month, her lawyer revealed the discovery of a bone lesion that raised concerns about potential cancer.

International organizations have called for Mohammadi’s full and permanent release.

Mohammadi’s release comes amidst significant challenges facing Iran. The country’s economy is grappling with the effects of Western sanctions, fueled in part by Iran’s nuclear program. Widespread public anger over currency devaluation and government corruption has led to ongoing protests and a harsh government crackdown.