More than 600 political prisoners were transferred back to Tehran’s Evin Prison early Friday, jailed activist Mehdi Mahmoudian said, after being held in Greater Tehran Penitentiary since the June 23 Israeli missile strike that damaged the facility.
The transfer began around 4 a.m. on Friday and included detainees arrested before and after the strike, according to Mahmoudian's Telegram channel. Prisoners were placed in Wards 7 and 8, with no prior notice given to families.
Security officers attempted to separate death-row political prisoners from others during the move, sparking protests, Iran International has learned. Several inmates, including veteran activist Mostafa Tajzadeh and Mahmoudian himself, were beaten.
Iran’s judiciary-affiliated Mizan news agency also acknowledged the return of some inmates, reporting on Friday that parts of Evin Prison had resumed operations. The brief report did not specify how many prisoners were moved back, which wards were reopened, or what conditions they now face.
Conditions in Greater Tehran Penitentiary
Mahmoudian said the earlier relocation to Greater Tehran Penitentiary had exposed “inhumane” conditions: poor sanitation, shortages of basic supplies, and harsh living circumstances. He argued that with Evin still unrepaired, the return was not a sign of improved conditions but a “stubborn and irrational” attempt by authorities to project normalcy.
June 23 strike killed 71, Iran says
The transfers come 45 days after Israel struck Evin Prison, calling it a “tool of repression.” Iran’s judiciary said 71 people were killed, including guards, staff, inmates, visiting relatives, and nearby residents.
Facilities destroyed in the strike included several wards, the infirmary, and the visitation hall. Victims included prison prosecutor Ali Ghanaatkar, two senior officials, medical staff, and at least one child.
Harsh relocation after attack
Following the June strike, surviving inmates were forcibly evacuated and sent to Greater Tehran Prison, Ghezel Hesar, and Qarchak Women’s Prison. Rights groups documented severe overcrowding, lack of clean water, food shortages, and denial of medical treatment.
