Iranian Activist Sharifeh Mohammadi's Death Sentence Upheld Amid "Armed Rebellion" Allegations

Iranian Activist Sharifeh Mohammadi Faces Imminent Execution for "Armed Rebellion" TEHRAN, IRAN - August 2025 - In a shocking turn of events, the Iranian Supreme Court has upheld the death sentence against Sharifeh Mohammadi, a 46-year-old activist and engineer, for allegedly engaging in "armed rebellion against the state." This is her third death sentence in less than two years. According to sources close to the case, Mohammadi was arrested in December 2023 for her involvement with a committee that aimed to form labor organizations in Rasht, a northern Iranian coastal city. The government considers this committee an "opposition group," and Mohammadi's activism has been deemed a threat to national security. "This is a clear example of how Iran's judiciary uses vague and overly broad laws to silence dissenting voices," said Marzieh Mohebi, a lawyer who has been following the case from exile in France. "The relevant articles of the law are so vaguely worded that judges can apply them to almost any form of protest or political activity." Mohammadi's family and supporters have expressed outrage over her repeated sentencing. Her 13-year-old son, who was left behind when she was arrested, has been vocal about his mother's innocence. "My mother is not a rebel," he said in an interview with DW. "She just wanted to help workers get fair treatment and better working conditions." Under Iranian law, three offenses are punishable by death: war against God (moharebeh), corruption on earth, and rebellion (baghi). Critics argue that these laws are often used as a pretext for silencing opposition voices. "This is not an isolated incident," said Hadi Ghaemi, executive director of the Center for Human Rights in Iran. "We've seen numerous cases where activists have been sentenced to death or imprisoned for exercising their right to free speech and assembly." The Iranian government has faced international criticism over its human rights record, particularly with regards to its treatment of dissenting voices. "The execution of Sharifeh Mohammadi would be a grave miscarriage of justice," said a spokesperson for the European Union. "We urge the Iranian authorities to reconsider her case and ensure that she is treated in accordance with international human rights standards." As the situation unfolds, supporters are calling on the international community to intervene and prevent Mohammadi's execution. "We will continue to advocate for Sharifeh's release and fight against this unjust sentence," said a spokesperson for Amnesty International. "The Iranian government must recognize that its actions have consequences and that the world is watching." Background: Sharifeh Mohammadi was arrested in December 2023 for her involvement with a committee aimed at forming labor organizations in Rasht, Iran. Context: Iran's judiciary has been criticized for using vague laws to silence dissenting voices. Additional Perspectives: Critics argue that the Iranian government is using the death penalty as a tool to suppress opposition and maintain control. Current Status: The Iranian Supreme Court has upheld Mohammadi's third death sentence, leaving her family and supporters in limbo. Next Developments: Supporters are calling on the international community to intervene and prevent Mohammadi's execution. The situation remains tense as the world watches with bated breath. *Reporting by Dw.*