Tue Dec 03 10:53:48 UTC 2024: **Iranian Rapper Toomaj Salehi Released After Year in Prison**
DUBAI, December 3, 2024 – Iranian hip-hop artist Toomaj Salehi, known for his protest songs criticizing the Iranian government, has been released from prison after serving over a year, according to Iranian media reports. Salehi, who had faced a death sentence overturned in June, was initially detained in 2022 following widespread protests sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini. His music, which included lyrics referencing Amini’s death and predicting the downfall of Iran’s theocracy, drew international attention. The Artist At Risk Connection celebrated his release, highlighting the dangers faced by artists who challenge authoritarian regimes. Salehi’s release comes amidst reports of a decrease in prosecutions of dissidents following the election of pro-reform President Masoud Pezeshkian in July. UN investigators previously blamed the Iranian government for Amini’s death and the violent suppression of subsequent protests.
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