Accessibility links

Breaking News

Freedom House Condemns Iran's Hanging Of Renowned Poet

Updated

Freedom House has condemned the execution in Iran of acclaimed poet and activist Hashem Shaabani.

The watchdog said Shaabani, 32, was put to death on January 27.

An Islamic Revolutionary Tribunal reportedly had sentenced the poet to death, along with 14 others, last July on charges that included "waging war on God."

In a statement on February 5, Freedom House said Shaabani was subjected to severe torture and interrogation during his three years in prison.

It said his death illustrates that Iran continues its violent repression of ethnic minorities and that human rights have not improved under President Hassan Rohani's rule.

Shaabani was an Iranian of Arab origin and a founder of the Dialogue Institute, which promoted understanding of Arabic culture and literature in Iran.
  • 16x9 Image

    RFE/RL

    RFE/RL journalists report the news in 27 languages in 23 countries where a free press is banned by the government or not fully established. We provide what many people cannot get locally: uncensored news, responsible discussion, and open debate.

RFE/RL has been declared an "undesirable organization" by the Russian government.

If you are in Russia or the Russia-controlled parts of Ukraine and hold a Russian passport or are a stateless person residing permanently in Russia or the Russia-controlled parts of Ukraine, please note that you could face fines or imprisonment for sharing, liking, commenting on, or saving our content, or for contacting us.

To find out more, click here.

XS
SM
MD
LG