Hossein Shanbehzadeh, an Iranian writer and activist, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison following his response to a tweet by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The sentencing, handed down by an Iranian court, stems from a single dot—or period—Shanbehzadeh posted in reply to Khamenei’s tweet, as well as additional charges related to alleged pro-Israel propaganda and criticism of the Iranian government.
Shanbehzadeh, known for his candid social media activity and outspoken criticism of Iran’s leadership, was arrested in June 2023 in Ardabil, northwestern Iran, shortly after his controversial tweet. The Iranian judiciary accused him of various offenses, including “insulting Islamic sanctities,” “spreading lies and disturbing public thought,” and engaging in “anti-regime propaganda.”
According to his lawyer, Amir Raisian, the charges include a five-year sentence for alleged pro-Israel activities, which the defense argues lack substantial evidence. The remaining years of his sentence are attributed to charges of insulting religious values, spreading misinformation, and promoting anti-government sentiment. Shanbehzadeh has previously faced imprisonment, including in 2019, for his critical views and support for political prisoners and the removal of mandatory headscarves for women in Iran.
The court’s ruling also includes a fine of 50 million rials (approximately $1,200). Raisian announced plans to appeal the verdict, particularly challenging the accusations of pro-Israel propaganda, which he claims were based on private communications rather than public posts.
Expanded Coverage:
