Ghazal Marzban begins hunger strike in Evin Prison

Ghazal Marzban, a 43-year-old Catholic convert, has commenced a hunger strike in Tehran’s Evin Prison. The protest follows reports that she has been denied access to a Bible and threatened with capital punishment for apostasy.

Marzban is currently serving a sentence of nine years and eight months for charges including “propaganda against the state” and “gathering and collusion against national security.” Reports indicate a judge has ordered her to sign a letter of repentance and record a video recanting her Christian faith to avoid execution. Prison authorities have reportedly informed her that only Iranians born into Christian families are permitted to possess Bibles.

Marzban’s previous history includes an 11-day hunger strike in June and allegations of physical abuse and sexual violence during detention. Additionally, a British traveler believed to be Lindsay Foreman, who is also detained in the prison, reportedly requested a Bible on Marzban’s behalf but was refused.