Reports from families of Iranian detainees highlight severe overcrowding, sanitation issues, and inadequate medical care in the aftermath of Israeli strikes on Evin Prison, suggesting significant human rights violations and conditions comparable to torture.
Detainees in Iranian Prisons Suffer After Israeli Air Strikes
Detainees in Iranian Prisons Suffer After Israeli Air Strikes
In the aftermath of Israeli air strikes on Evin Prison, inmates endure horrendous conditions as they are transferred to other facilities.
Iran's notorious Evin Prison has become a nightmarish memory for many of its inmates following air strikes by Israel, which struck on June 23. A month later, those transferred to other prisons due to significant damage are reporting dire and inhumane conditions. Promises by Iranian authorities for improved living situations have gone unfulfilled, with inmates from Evin now faced with overcrowded cells, inadequate sanitation, and pest infestations.
The Israeli military engaged in the targeted air strikes primarily aimed at what it described as a "symbol of oppression" for the Iranian people. However, the consequences have been devastating. Iranian officials have reported that the deadly strikes claimed 80 lives, including prisoners, security personnel, and conscripts. Satellite images confirm extensive damage to several facilities within the prison, raising significant questions about international humanitarian law.
Families of inmates have spoken out, recounting horrifying conditions in facilities like Fashafouyeh Prison, situated 20 miles south of Tehran. Many detainees are forced to sleep on the floor in overcrowded cells lacking air conditioning. The prison’s remote location makes family visits difficult, further isolating the inmates. Reports reveal that political prisoners are kept alongside violent offenders, a tactic criticized by human rights organizations as a means of intimidation.
Eyewitness accounts mentioned a verified video showing the stark contrast between the portrayed conditions and reality. During a staged filming where officials attempted to showcase prison reforms, inmates began to chant against the regime, highlighting the ongoing unrest and dissatisfaction among detainees. Overcrowding, inadequate hygiene, and lack of basic provisions have left many prisoners in a state of despair, with reports indicating infestations of insects and lack of proper medical care.
Prominent journalists and activists have also voiced their concerns about the neglect faced by political detainees, especially those transferred to Qarchak Prison, known for its harsh conditions. Reports suggest that elderly inmates, including women from the minority Baha'i community, endure extreme hardships without access to medical aid.
Moreover, the ramifications of this conflict extend beyond prison walls, as civilian deaths associated with the strikes have been verified. Among the casualties was a painter, Mehrangiz Imenpour, who was inadvertently killed during the raids while going about her daily life.
The continuing plight of detainees and the collateral damage to civilians bring to light the complexities and responsibilities of state conduct in times of conflict, raising ethical and legal questions globally.
