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Nobel Peace Prize Winner Faces New Prison Term in Iran
Iranian human rights activist and 2023 Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi has been sentenced to more than seven years in prison by an Iranian court, according to her lawyer. The 53-year-old activist received six years for 'gathering and collusion to commit crimes' and an additional 1.5 years for 'propaganda activities against the state.'
Ongoing Persecution of a Prominent Activist
Mohammadi, who has been imprisoned multiple times since 1998 for her advocacy of women's rights and opposition to Iran's mandatory hijab laws, was arrested again in December 2025. She was detained at a memorial ceremony for a human rights lawyer where she appeared without a headscarf and encouraged mourners to chant protest slogans. 'This sentencing represents the Iranian regime's continued determination to silence its most prominent critics,' said a spokesperson for the Defenders of Human Rights Center, where Mohammadi serves as vice president.
Health Concerns and Hunger Strike
According to her supporters, Mohammadi recently ended a six-day hunger strike protesting her prison conditions and lack of access to lawyers and family. Her health deteriorated during the strike, requiring hospitalization, but she was returned to detention before completing treatment. 'Her health is fragile, and we expect she will be released on bail for medical treatment,' her lawyer stated. Mohammadi suffers from epilepsy and has previously expressed concerns about cancer.
International Recognition Amid Repression
Mohammadi was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2023 for her fight against the oppression of women in Iran and her promotion of human rights. At the time, she was imprisoned, and her children accepted the award on her behalf. Her husband, journalist Taghi Rahmani, moved to France in 2012 after serving 14 years in prison, while Mohammadi remained in Iran to continue her human rights work.
Broader Context of Human Rights Crisis
This sentencing comes amid a severe human rights crisis in Iran. According to Human Rights Watch, Iran carried out over 2,000 executions in 2025 - the highest number since the late 1980s. Recent protests against economic collapse and political repression have been met with unprecedented lethal force, resulting in thousands of deaths. 'The international community must take stronger action to hold Iran accountable for these systematic human rights violations,' said a UN human rights expert.
Additional Penalties and Future Outlook
In addition to the prison sentence, Mohammadi faces two years of internal exile to Khosf city in South Khorasan province and a two-year travel ban. The verdict can still be appealed, but her supporters remain concerned about her deteriorating health in prison. Her case highlights the ongoing struggle for human rights in Iran and the personal sacrifices made by activists challenging the regime.
