Concerns over the health of prominent and imprisoned blogger Hossein Ronaghi are growing in Iran.
Hundreds of people gathered outside a hospital in the capital Tehran overnight, according to eyewitnesses. The well-known activist, who has been on hunger strike for over a month, is being treated there.
The police responded with tear gas
Protesters shouted protest slogans and demanded Ronaghi’s release. Police and security forces responded with tear gas. After treatment, the activist was reportedly taken to an undisclosed location, family members said.
The 37-year-old is one of the best-known human rights activists in Iran. Shortly after the nationwide protests began in September, Ronaghi was surprised by security forces during a TV interview. After escaping, he turned himself in to authorities a few days later and was violently arrested.
family with allegations of torture
Ronaghi’s family accuses the security apparatus of torturing the man in Ewin’s notorious prison and breaking both of his legs. Over the weekend, Ronaghi’s brother Hassan wrote on Twitter: “Hossein’s life is in danger.”
In recent weeks, the government has repeatedly taken action against well-known activists and celebrities who have shown solidarity with the protests. According to the human rights activist, about 15,000 protesters have already been arrested. The judiciary demands harsh penalties.