Trump urges Iran to free detained women prisoners

WASHINGTON: (Web Desk) – US President Donald Trump has called on Iran to release eight women allegedly facing death sentences, in what he suggested could help create space for potential diplomatic talks between Washington and Tehran.

According to reports cited by the New York Post, the women were arrested following anti-government protests in Iran earlier this year. Among them are a 16-year-old girl and a medical doctor.

The individuals named include Beta Hemmati, Diana Taherabadi, Mehbooba Shabani, Venus Hosseini Nejad, Golnaz Naraqi, Ghazal Gholandari, Panah Movahedi, and Ansia Nejati. However, some of the identities have not been independently verified.

Media reports allege that Beta Hemmati has been charged with serious offenses, including the use of explosives, participation in protests, and threats to national security, and was reportedly sentenced to death alongside others.

Similarly, 16-year-old Diana Taherabadi has been charged with “moharebeh” (enmity against God), a capital offense under Iranian law. Mehbooba Shabani was reportedly detained for assisting injured protesters.

Venus Hosseini Nejad was arrested in January, with her family alleging she was forced to confess on state television. Golnaz Naraqi, a doctor, was also detained and reportedly compelled to sign a confession.

Human rights organizations have repeatedly raised concerns about the lack of transparency in trials involving protesters in Iran, as well as allegations of forced confessions. Reports indicate that thousands were detained during the protests, with many receiving harsh sentences that have drawn international criticism.