Iran's Evin prison, long known for holding political dissidents, has resumed operations just two months after a devastating attack by Israel left much of the facility in ruins. Around 600 male inmates, including prominent dissidents, have been returned to two refurbished wards, while the rest of the compound remains largely destroyed and unrepaired. The hasty reopening has drawn criticism from rights groups and lawyers, who argue that the prison lacks basic infrastructure and adequate conditions for detainees, especially amid a severe heat wave. Reports from prisoners and their families describe violence during transfers and ongoing hardships, with many expressing shock at the extent of the damage and the lack of essential services. Iranian officials have framed the move as a show of resilience, while international organizations have called for investigations into both the attack and Iran's treatment of prisoners.

Original article source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/23/world/middleeast/iran-evin-prisoners-return.html
Source Id: 2025-08-812936368