Could Israel's Attack on Iran's Evin Prison Change Everything?

On 23 June 2023, Israel launched a devastating airstrike on Iran's Evin Prison, resulting in significant civilian casualties and drawing international condemnation. The attack, which left at least 80 people dead, including prison staff, inmates, and visitors, has raised serious concerns regarding violations of international humanitarian law and the targeting of civilian infrastructure.

Last updated: 23 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The airstrike on Evin Prison resulted in 80 confirmed deaths, with victims including inmates and staff.
• Israeli officials claimed the prison was used for intelligence operations against them.
• Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International condemned the attack as potentially a war crime.
• Eyewitness accounts describe chaos and humanitarian efforts among inmates during the strike.
• The fate of transgender prisoners remains uncertain, amid conflicting reports of casualties.

Background of Evin Prison

Evin Prison, located in northern Tehran, has long been a focal point of human rights abuses in Iran. Established shortly after the 1979 Iranian Revolution, it has housed a wide array of political prisoners, dissidents, and activists. Over the past fifty years, thousands have endured harsh conditions within its walls. The facility is notorious not only for its overcrowding but also for reports of torture and inhumane treatment.

Details of the Attack

The attack on Evin Prison occurred during the closing hours of the Israel-Iran war, marking a significant escalation in hostilities between the two nations. Reports indicate that at least six projectiles were fired at the facility, damaging 28 buildings within the complex. Eyewitness accounts describe a scene of terror as explosions shattered windows and sent inmates scrambling for safety.

Motahareh Goonei, a political activist held in solitary confinement, recounted her harrowing experience during the strike. She described the terrifying moment when explosions rocked the prison and her desperate attempts to escape her cell. "When I heard the third blast, I was certain there was no way out," she said. Her eventual rescue by fellow inmates exemplified the solidarity that emerged amidst the chaos.

Casualties and Humanitarian Response

According to Iranian authorities, 80 individuals were killed in the strike. This figure includes 42 prison staff, five inmates, and several civilians, including a mother and her one-year-old child who were visiting the prison. Eyewitnesses reported seeing bodies strewn across the compound, with many inmates emerging in shock rather than attempting to flee.

Human Rights Watch published a report on 14 August, asserting that the Israeli airstrikes were indiscriminate and potentially constituted a war crime. It highlighted the need for accountability and adherence to international humanitarian law, which prohibits attacks on civilian objects.

International Reactions

The international community has reacted strongly to the attack. Amnesty International characterised the airstrikes as violations of international humanitarian law, asserting that directing attacks at civilian objects is strictly forbidden. Erika Guevara Rosas from Amnesty stated, "Carrying out such attacks knowingly and deliberately constitutes a war crime."

In a statement, the UN human rights office also condemned the attack, emphasising that Evin Prison was not a legitimate military target. The Israeli government, however, defended its actions, claiming the facility was being used for intelligence operations against it. The IDF's spokesperson stated that measures were taken to minimise civilian harm, a claim met with scepticism amid reports of extensive civilian casualties.

The Fate of Transgender Prisoners

In the aftermath of the attack, serious concerns have arisen regarding the fate of transgender prisoners held at Evin. Initial reports suggested that up to 100 transgender inmates may have been killed, but investigations by BBC Persian have revealed these claims lack substantiation. Reza Shafakhah, a lawyer familiar with the situation of transgender prisoners, expressed concern for their safety, stating, "No one knows where these prisoners are now."

What Happens Next?

The attack on Evin Prison has escalated tensions between Israel and Iran, with both nations now facing scrutiny over their military actions and human rights practices. As investigations into the bombing continue, the repercussions for those involved, particularly regarding potential war crime charges, remain uncertain.

In the coming months, it is likely that international human rights organisations will continue to advocate for accountability, pushing for thorough investigations into the strike and its legality under international law. The humanitarian crisis within the prison system and the broader implications for Iranian political prisoners will also remain critical areas of focus.

Conclusion

The airstrike on Evin Prison on 23 June not only resulted in tragic loss of life but also highlighted the precarious situation of political prisoners in Iran. As the situation unfolds, the call for justice and accountability grows louder, raising important questions about the intersection of military actions and human rights.

FAQs

What was the reason for the Israeli airstrike on Evin Prison?

The Israeli government claimed the airstrike was necessary as Evin Prison was allegedly being used for intelligence operations against Israel.

How many people were killed in the attack on Evin Prison?

Iranian authorities reported that 80 people were killed, including prison staff, inmates, and visitors, during the airstrike on 23 June 2023.

What has been the international response to the airstrike?

International organisations, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, condemned the airstrike as potentially a war crime, highlighting violations of international humanitarian law.

What is the current situation of transgender prisoners in Evin Prison?

The fate of transgender prisoners remains uncertain following the attack, with conflicting reports about casualties and concerns about their safety.

What measures have been taken to investigate the attack on Evin Prison?

Human rights organisations are conducting investigations to assess the legality of the airstrike and the treatment of prisoners, but the situation remains fluid and complex.