NEW YORK — A chilling plot to assassinate Iranian American journalist Masih Alinejad was revealed in court, with prosecutors asserting the plan was close to fruition. The plot involved two men, Rafat Amirov and Polad Omarov, who were convicted in March for their roles in this dangerous scheme. Prosecutors are pushing for a 55-year prison sentence for both mobsters, citing evidence that revealed they were willing to commit murder for financial gain, despite the risk of arrest. Alinejad, an activist and contributor to Voice of America, is known for her online campaigns advocating for Iranian women's rights, particularly encouraging them to protest compulsory hijab laws. She has been subject to threats by the Iranian government, which allegedly offered a $500,000 bounty on her life after previous attempts to intimidate her failed. Alinejad plans to address her attackers in court, emphasizing how the judicial system plays a vital role in ensuring journalists can operate without fear of violent retribution. This case spotlights the urgent need for protecting freedom of expression and the significant threats journalists face from authoritarian regimes.
Assassination Plot Against Iranian American Journalist Revealed
Assassination Plot Against Iranian American Journalist Revealed
A chilling assassination plot against journalist Masih Alinejad has come to light with key figures from the Russian mob facing significant prison time after being convicted for their roles in the plan.
Prosecutors revealed that a plan to assassinate Masih Alinejad, an Iranian American journalist, was narrowly thwarted. Two Russian mobsters, Rafat Amirov and Polad Omarov, are facing lengthy prison sentences after being convicted for their roles in this plot which included a bounty placed on Alinejad's life. The situation raised concerns over how Iranian intelligence attempted to silence Alinejad due to her outspoken criticism of the Iranian regime, highlighting the dangers journalists face when challenging authoritarian governments.
