Twenty-seven political prisoners in Ward 12 of Urumieh Central Prison are continuing their hunger strike to protest their mistreatment by prison authorities. One of the prisoners, Alireza Rasouli, is reportedly in grave health. His hunger strike has now reached 25 days.

A report by the Campaign for the Rights of Political and Civil Prisoners says the strike began with Rasouli protesting the failure of the authorities to provide him with adequate medical treatment for cancer; his defiance attracted more prisoners who are challenging the behaviour of prison guards and personnel.

Prison authorities reportedly met with the prisoners on Tuesday and threatened that if they do not end their strike, a number of prisoners on death row will be executed. Ten of the hunger strikers are sentenced to death. Despite the threats, prisoners continue to refuse food.

Radio Zamaneh