"Release Political Prisoners"; Protests in the 75th Week of the "Tuesdays No to Executions" Campaign

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In Iran, the cry to free political prisoners echoes through the streets as the “No to Execution Tuesdays” campaign marks its 75th week. This powerful movement, now one of the most enduring protests against the death penalty, unites families and citizens in cities like Tehran, Tabriz, and Rasht. On July 1, 2025, voices rose again, demanding the release of political prisoners and an end to inhumane executions. This article explores the campaign’s impact, the dire prison conditions, and the urgent call for global support.

The 75th Week of “No to Execution Tuesdays”

On July 1, 2025, Iran’s No to Execution Tuesdays campaign reached its 75th week, amplifying the demand to free political prisoners. This nationwide movement has grown into a symbol of resistance against the death penalty. Protests spanned cities like Tehran, Babol, Babolsar, Fuman, Sanandaj, Qaemshahr, Shahriar, Tabriz, and Rasht. Banners and flyers carried bold messages:

“Free political prisoners!”
“Execution leads to uprising!”
“No to execution!”

These slogans reflect the public’s unwavering resolve to end capital punishment and secure justice for those unjustly imprisoned.

Families of Political Prisoners Speak Out

The families of political prisoners Vahid Bani-Amerian and Pouya Ghobadi released a powerful video, joining the call to free political prisoners. Holding placards with messages like “No to execution” and “Free political prisoners,” they condemned the inhumane conditions in prisons, particularly Fashafouyeh. They described:

Poor sanitation and inadequate food.
Lack of basic security and medical care.
Denial of family contact and legal support.

In the video, the families passionately declared:

“No to execution! Free political prisoners, especially now. They endure harsh conditions—release them! Support No to Execution Tuesdays.”

This heartfelt plea underscores the campaign’s mission to raise awareness and halt executions in Iran.

Violent Prison Transfers Amid Crisis

The protests gained urgency after a recent missile attack damaged Evin Prison, affecting Ward 209 and administrative buildings. Authorities issued an immediate evacuation order, transferring male political prisoners to Fashafouyeh and female prisoners to Qarchak Prison in Varamin. Reports describe these transfers as violent, with special forces raiding at night, using threats and force. Prisoners had no time to prepare.

Families expressed outrage, stating the government abandoned prisoners in dangerous, ill-equipped facilities during a time of crisis. These actions highlight the regime’s disregard for basic human rights.

Dire Prison Conditions Spark Outrage

Families warned that prisons like Fashafouyeh lack:

Proper ventilation and basic hygiene.
Adequate nutrition and medical facilities.
Access to family communication or legal aid.

This deliberate isolation aims to cut off political prisoners from public and media support. The families’ video serves as a stark reminder of the inhumane treatment endured by those behind bars.

New Arrests and Ongoing Repression

Human rights organizations report a fresh wave of arrests amid Iran’s escalating security crisis. Authorities target individuals for social media activity, protest posts, or media contact, charging them with “propaganda against the state” or “disturbing public opinion.” Observers see this as an attempt to suppress potential uprisings during turbulent times. The crackdown underscores the regime’s fear of growing dissent.

A Global Call to Action

The families’ video is more than a protest—it’s a courageous stand against oppression. Their message breaks through enforced silence, demanding the immediate release of political prisoners and the abolition of death penalty rulings. This vivid portrayal of Iran’s prison crisis calls on the global community, human rights organizations, and individuals to act.

The No to Execution Tuesdays campaign is a beacon of hope, urging the world to support Iran’s fight for justice. Stand with the families. Demand: