Iranian twins appeal to UN after death sentences
Two 21‑year‑old Iranian sisters, Taraneh and Romina Rahimi, were sentenced to death and 25 years in prison for protesting in Isfahan. Their family has petitioned the United Nations for intervention, citing alleged torture, forced confessions and a threat to force one sister to witness the other’s r…
By Felo News Desk · Published
In a stark reminder of Iran’s harsh response to dissent, 21‑year‑old twins Taraneh and Romina Rahimi were handed death and 25‑year sentences after joining nationwide protests in January 2024. Their family, led by mother Marzieh Nourmohammadi, has now turned to the United Nations for help, citing alleged torture and forced confessions.
What Happened to the Rahimi Twins?
The twins were seized by members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) from their beds in Isfahan eight months ago. They were charged with “moharebeh” – waging war against God – for participating in street demonstrations on 8 and 9 January. In late August, a court in Isfahan sentenced Taraneh to death and Romina to 25 years in prison.
Human rights groups warn that the execution of Taraneh could be expedited. The sisters are held in Dowlatabad prison, where they have reportedly been isolated but still hear each other’s screams as torture is inflicted. According to family members, Taraneh was threatened that she would be forced to watch her sister’s rape if she refused to sign a confession. Romina, meanwhile, is said to have been told she would only be allowed to eat leftovers from other prisoners as punishment.
Family Appeals to the United Nations
British human‑rights lawyers submitted a formal “submission of information” on behalf of the Rahimi family to the UN Human Rights Council. The submission could prompt the council to open a dialogue with Iran over the case, should it be found to involve human‑rights violations.
Marzieh’s cousin, Masoud Nourmohammadi, an IT engineer living in Utah, said he turned to the UN out of desperation. He urged the international community to ensure the twins receive a fair trial, protection from torture, medical care and legal counsel. He also highlighted that the twins have not seen any family members since their sentencing.
Iran’s Stance and the Wider Context
President Masoud Pezeshkian told the UN General Assembly in New York that Iran was “ready for dialogue and diplomacy.” Yet the country has executed more than 500 people this year, including at least 16 women, and has sentenced hundreds of protesters to death or to sentences that could carry the death penalty.
In Isfahan alone, more than 70 people face death or long prison terms for their participation in protests. The Rahimi twins’ case has drawn international attention, especially after the Guardian highlighted their plight.
What Happens Next?
The UN’s special procedures could lead to a formal request for Iran to explain and act on the case. The twins’ family hopes the international pressure will prevent Taraneh’s execution and secure Romina’s release. Until then, the sisters remain in isolation, with their future uncertain.
While the UN’s involvement may bring scrutiny, the Iranian government’s record of suppressing dissent suggests that the outcome remains uncertain. The family continues to pursue every legal avenue, both domestically and internationally, to protect their daughters’ rights.
Why This Matters
The Rahimi twins’ case underscores the severe risks faced by Iranian citizens who protest against the regime. Their appeal to the UN highlights the need for international accountability and the protection of human rights in authoritarian contexts.
Key facts
- Death and 25‑year sentences for protesting twins
- Allegations of torture and forced confessions
- UN Human Rights Council may intervene
- Iran’s record of executions and harsh sentences
- International pressure remains uncertain
Why it matters
The twins’ case illustrates the extreme measures Iran takes against dissent, raising global concerns about human rights violations and the need for international oversight.
Frequently asked questions
What is the UN’s role in this case?
The UN can request an explanation from Iran and push for a review of the twins’ sentences if human‑rights violations are found.
Can the UN prevent the execution?
The UN can apply diplomatic pressure, but it cannot directly stop a national execution unless the country complies with international law.
What evidence exists of torture?
Family members report isolation, forced confessions, and threats of forced rape, but independent verification is pending.
How many protesters face similar sentences?
Over 70 in Isfahan alone are facing death or long prison terms for protest participation.
Sources
- [1] theguardian.com — originally reported as “Family of Iranian twins sentenced to death and decades in jail ask UN for help”
