Iranian musician Mehdi Yarrahi, 43, has faced brutal punishment in the form of 74 lashes after being arrested during a crackdown on artistic dissent in 2023. This measure, aimed at humiliating him for his support of women's rights and the ongoing nationwide protests against mandatory hijab laws, was carried out by the Morality Security Prosecutor’s Office in Tehran. His lawyer, Zahra Minuei, shared the news of the flogging on social media.
Yarrahi, known for his pro-freedom stances, reflected on the harsh sentence, stating, “He who is not willing to pay the price for freedom does not deserve freedom,” as he expressed gratitude for his legal team's support and continued hopes for liberation. His condition following the punishment leaves him unable to sit or lean comfortably, according to another lawyer, Mostafa Nili.
Critics have condemned the severity of the punishment, emphasizing that the United Nations’ International Bill of Human Rights expressly prohibits such degrading treatment. The incident occurs alongside a celebratory moment for Iran's artistic community, with recent successes at the Oscars for two Iranian directors, which contrasts sharply with Yarrahi's plight. Social media users voiced their outrage over the stark differences between the accolades earned abroad and the abusive treatment faced by artists within Iran.
Yarrahi's arrest was part of a broader wave of suppressive actions aimed at quelling dissent during the anniversary of a 2022 uprising that saw widespread protests, especially led by women. This latest crackdown underscores the ongoing tension between Iran's conservative establishment and calls for reform and human rights from its populace, particularly its artistic community.
