Security Forces Arrest Two Rock Climbers in Iran’s Esfahan

Authorities have arrested two rock climbers in Iran without charge in the central province of Isfahan (Esfahan).

Maryam Parandeh Khouzani and Sama Amoushahi were arrested on July 11, in the wake of a recent spate of protests in Iran targeting sectors of society including athletes.

Khouzani, a highly-regarded rock climbing instructor, was apprehended by agents from the Ministry of Intelligence while participating in an official class organized by the Mountaineering Federation in Khomeinishahr of Esfahan. After her arrest, she was transferred to Dowlatabad Women's Prison in Esfahan.

On same day Sama Amoushahi, a talented rock climber who is currently battling cancer, was also arrested and detained. Her detention has raised alarm bells among human rights activists and concerned citizens, as her health condition requires specialized medical attention and care.

The arrest of these two athletes is part of a broader wave of arrests and detentions that have affected several citizens in Esfahan. The cases of those detained, including the two athletes, are currently being processed in Branch 13 of the Esfahan Revolutionary Court. As of now, no formal charges have been brought against the detainees, and detailed information about their well-being and circumstances remains scarce.

Despite the families' efforts to seek updates on the situation and to engage with judicial authorities, they have been unable to obtain substantial information regarding the detainees' status.

Many Iranian athletes and actresses have fearlessly demonstrated their support the movement by posting pictures of themselves at international events, undeterred by threats of punishment. Despite serious warnings from authorities, athletes and other celebrities have continued to publicly show solidarity with the protesters without yielding to the pressure.