High-profile cases include that of British-Iranian dual citizen Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, who was detained for nearly seven years on charges of attempting to overthrow the Iranian regime.
Zaghari-Ratcliffe’s release in 2022 followed the settlement of a decades-old debt between the U.K. and Iran.
Conditions in Evin Prison
Evin prison, where Sala is being held, has gained international notoriety for its harsh conditions. It has often served as a detention center for political prisoners.
The facility came under renewed scrutiny following the “Woman, Life, Freedom” protests sparked by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in September 2022.
Amini’s death while in police custody for allegedly violating Iran’s hijab laws ignited widespread demonstrations. Thousands of protestors, many of them women, were detained in Evin Prison where some still remain.
Accounts from former detainees describe brutal interrogations, solitary confinement, and psychological torture.
A recent BBC report highlighted the experiences of a detainee named Nasim, who endured daily interrogations lasting 10-12 hours, threats of execution, and four months in solitary confinement. Such stories underscore the severity of conditions faced by prisoners in Evin.
International Efforts to Secure Sala’s Release
Italian authorities remain steadfast in their efforts to bring Sala home. Foreign Minister Tajani has emphasized the complexity of the situation. They also note that while Italy is doing everything possible, the timeline for her release ultimately lies in Iranian hands.
