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June 30, 2009

NIAC calls on Iranian Government to end political detentions and violence against protesters

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: GOLI FASSIHIAN
TEL: 202-215-0998

NIAC also calls on Iran’s trading partners to demand an end to government sponsored violence

Washington DC – The National Iranian American Council remains deeply concerned about the deteriorating human rights situation in Iran since the country’s disputed elections on June 12. Disturbing accounts of continued violence and widespread intimidation and harassment of Iranian citizens by the Basij militia and other elements of Iran’s security forces continue to be received from inside the country.

NIAC is deeply concerned about the fate of hundreds of people detained in the post-election crisis, including opposition figures, human rights defenders, journalists, and protesters. Iranian authorities have carried out hundreds of politically-motivated arrests according to human rights organizations. Those detained are understood to be at a high risk for torture.

NIAC calls on Iranian authorities to:


1) Immediately release opposition figures, human rights defenders, and all other persons arrested for contesting the election results.
2) Ensure those currently in detention are treated humanely. Provide detainees immediate access to their families, lawyers, and any medical treatment that may be needed.
3) Immediately halt state-sanctioned violence against the Iranian people. Ensure the public’s free movement, as well as the physical safety of Iranians in their homes.
4) Immediately restore communications and access to information, including cell phones and internet. Halt surveillance of private communications and retribution for participation in demonstrations.
NIAC calls on Iranian authorities to resolve its political crisis through free democratic debate and the recognition of the rights of Iranians to free speech and free assembly.
NIAC will continue to monitor the human rights situation in Iran as a major concern for the Iranian-American community. NIAC will work with governmental and nongovernmental actors in the United States and around the world to elevate this issue as a priority for the world community.

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