Statement from Thomson Reuters Foundation CEO in Response to Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe’s Planned Hunger Strike

It is extremely shocking to see our colleague Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe going on hunger strike to protest at her inhumane treatment in Evin prison, at a time where her health is already at its poorest. I am sincerely worried about the dire consequences of this. 

Nazanin’s mental and physical health have deteriorated steadily since her arrest more than 1000 days ago and despite concerns over lumps in her breast, she is refused access to serious medical care. This is slow and cruel torture, yet one more injustice inflicted upon her. 

As her employer, I repeat that Nazanin is totally innocent, and certainly not spy material, as portrayed by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard. The recently broadcast film of her arrest at the Tehran airport by Iranian State TV is further proof of her innocence, if needed: it shows Nazanin absolutely stunned at her arrest, with no idea of what she is accused. This spontaneous reaction was seized by a hidden camera. 

The Iranian government and judiciary must act immediately, release her and allow urgent treatment before her health deteriorates any further. I call upon those responsible to free her now. 

About the Thomson Reuters Foundation: 

The Thomson Reuters Foundation acts to promote the highest standards in journalism and spread the practice of legal pro bono worldwide. The organisation runs initiatives that inform, connect and empower people around the world: access to free legal assistance, editorial coverage of the world’s under-reported news, media development and training, and the Trust Conference.