Iranian religious leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has pardoned tens of thousands of prisoners, according to state media. The move was made on the occasion of the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, state television announced on Sunday. The pardon therefore included reduced detention and amnesty. The state agency IRNA reported that protesters arrested during the latest wave of protests were also affected by the decision.
According to IRNA, the pardon came at the suggestion of the chief justice, Gholam-Hussein Mohseni-Edschehi, who had recently taken a tough stance against protesters.
More than 500 protesters were killed during the protests and about 20,000 were imprisoned according to estimates by human rights activists. The judiciary was criticized after carrying out death sentences against protesters in the country and internationally.
The pardon is conditional, IRNA said. Among other things, no prisoners accused of espionage will be pardoned. Murder, damage or arson to government or military facilities also exclude a pardon.
Iran’s political leadership has been under immense strain since nationwide protests erupted in mid-September. Following the death of Iranian Kurd Jina Mahsa Amini in police custody, Tehran plunged into its worst political crisis in decades. The 22-year-old was arrested nearly five months ago for violating Islamic dress codes.
On February 11, the Islamic Republic celebrates its 44th anniversary. In February 1979, the monarchy in Iran was overthrown after the return of Ruhollah Khomeini from exile in Paris. Saturday’s celebrations mark the tenth day after Khomeini’s arrival in the capital Tehran. Khamenei took office as political and religious leader in 1989. The 83-year-old has the final say in all strategic matters. (saw/sda/dpa)
Soource :Watson
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
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