Amnesty International Calls for Release of Prisoners in Iran Amidst Regional Tensions
Madrid, March 7 (EFE) – Amnesty International (AI) has urgently called on Iranian authorities to immediately release all individuals detained arbitrarily, as well as those imprisoned for financial debts, serving preventative detention, or convicted of minor, non-violent crimes. The organization cites the escalating regional tensions, particularly the recent exchange of attacks between Israel and the US, as creating a heightened risk to the safety of these prisoners.
Heightened Risks to Detainees
AI argues that these detainees are now at “serious risk” due to the ongoing conflict. Reports from human rights defenders indicate that airstrikes near prisons and security centers have already led to some prisoner releases. However, the Iranian authorities have refused to extend this to all arbitrarily detained individuals, including those held for political reasons, or to grant temporary humanitarian release to others.
This refusal, according to Amnesty International, knowingly exposes these prisoners to a significant threat of death or serious harm, including minors.
Attacks Near Detention Facilities
According to relatives of prisoners and human rights defenders cited by AI, explosions have been reported near several detention facilities, including:
- Evin Prison and the Greater Tehran Central Penitentiary
- Zanjan prison
- Mahabad prison, in the province of West Azerbaijan
attacks have targeted security centers housing prisoners, including facilities belonging to the Ministry of Intelligence and police stations in Tehran, Mahabad, Urumieh, Sanandaj, and Kermanshah.
Violations of International Humanitarian Law
Amnesty International strongly condemns direct attacks against civilian objects, such as prisons, stating that these constitute “serious violations” of international humanitarian law and may amount to war crimes. The organization also reports concerns regarding allegations that Iranian authorities are denying prisoners adequate food and water, subjecting some to enforced disappearance, and engaging in torture and other ill-treatment, potentially in retaliation for protests demanding freedom following the explosions.
Call for Prisoner Safety and Compliance with International Law
Esteban Beltrán, director of Amnesty International in Spain, urged Iran to comply with its obligations under international humanitarian law. This includes taking all possible measures to remove prisoners and other civilians from the vicinity of military objectives. Amnesty International continues to monitor the situation and advocate for the protection of human rights in Iran.