CurrentReport Blog Iranian rapper Toomaj Salehi has been sentenced to death by an Iranian court for his involvement in supporting anti-hijab protests. Salehi, who has been in jail for over a year and a half, was arrested in October 2022 after publicly expressing his support for the demonstrations sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini, who tragically passed away shortly after being detained for wearing an “improper” hijab in 2022.
The verdict was delivered by Branch 1 of the Isfahan Revolutionary Court, citing Salehi’s alleged involvement in “corruption on Earth.” His attorney, Amir Raisian, confirmed the sentence, revealing that Salehi was accused of various charges including “assistance in sedition, assembly and collusion, propaganda against the system, and calling for riots.”
Despite the Iranian Supreme Court’s review of the case and issuance of a ruling to address flaws in the sentence, the Revolutionary Court opted not to implement the directive, highlighting its independence in an unprecedented move, as noted by Raisian.
Salehi’s attorney has affirmed that they will appeal against the sentence, signaling a continued legal battle for the rapper’s life and rights. The case has drawn international attention, sparking concerns about freedom of expression and human rights in Iran.
