Iranian pop singer Mehdi Yarrahi has been subjected to 74 lashes as punishment for his conviction related to alcohol possession, a sentence that has drawn international condemnation and highlighted ongoing tensions regarding women’s rights and freedom of expression in the country.
Yarrahi, known for his song Roosarito, which advocates for women to shed their mandatory hijabs, received the lashes on Wednesday.
His lawyer, Zahra Minuei, confirmed the execution of the sentence via social media, stating that it was carried out by officials from the Morality Prosecutor’s office in Tehran.
The punishment stems from his arrest in August 2023 during a crackdown on artists and activists supporting the Woman, Life, Freedom movement following the death of Mahsa Amini.
The singer’s song and its accompanying music video showcased women dancing without head coverings, a bold act of defiance against Iran’s strict dress code.
In a recent post on X, Yarrahi expressed his thoughts on freedom, stating, The person who is not willing to pay a price for freedom is not worthy of freedom.”
This incident comes at a time when public demonstrations against the Iranian government have surged, particularly among women challenging the compulsory hijab laws.
Activists argue that Yarrahi’s flogging is not only a punishment for his personal actions but also an attempt to suppress dissent and intimidate others who might support similar movements.
The international community has reacted strongly to Yarrahi’s punishment. Human rights organizations have condemned the use of flogging as inhumane and degrading.
Prominent figures within Iran’s artistic community have also voiced their outrage, with many expressing solidarity with Yarrahi and condemning the government’s oppressive measures against artists.
As tensions continue to rise in Iran over issues of personal freedoms and human rights, Yarrahi’s case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those who dare to speak out against the regime.
