Iranian twin sisters were jailed over their participation in January protests, with one receiving a death sentence and the other a 25-year prison term, according to court documents.
The twins, aged 19 at the time of their arrest, were taken from their beds in the dead of night by masked men later identified as being sent by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps. Their mother, Marzieh Nourmohammadi, learned of their fate after four months of searching for information through hospitals and state institutions.
During a prison visit in May, their mother found the twins unrecognizable, with injuries including broken elbows, knuckles, and feet, and patchy scalps from being dragged by their hair. Taraneh was reportedly threatened with rape unless she signed a confession. The court later sentenced Taraneh to death and Romina to 25 years in prison. Their family has not seen them since the sentencing.
Why it matters
The case highlights the impact of Iran's judicial system on young protesters and their families, particularly women.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
The outcome of any potential appeals for Taraneh and the response from international allies to the death sentence.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.