In brief
71 people have been reported dead following an Israeli airstrike on Evin Prison, a facility notorious for housing political dissidents and activists, according to Iranian state media.
In a recent attack on June 23, Evin Prison, located in Tehran, was struck amid intensified Israeli military operations during an ongoing conflict. Iranian state news indicates that the casualties included detainees, visiting family members, and prison staff, with many families expressing concern for their loved ones who have not been heard from since the incident. Evin Prison has a history of holding numerous political prisoners, including prominent opposition figures and dual nationals accused of espionage. Rights organizations have long criticized the prison for its harsh treatment of inmates, including torture and unjust trials. The Israeli defense ministry refrained from commenting on the operation, which was part of a wider military campaign targeting Iranian sites. This conflict has taken over 600 Iranian lives, culminating in a recent cease-fire agreement. Notably, the attack also resulted in the death of Ali Ghanaatkar, a key prosecutor at the prison known for his role in prosecuting high-profile dissidents, raising additional concerns about the fate of many of Evin's vulnerable inmates.
