Detained Iranian filmmaker may soon be released

Jafar Panahi

Iranian Judicial authorities have shown some "inclination" toward releasing detained Iranian filmmaker, Jafar Panahi, according to his defense attorney, Farideh Gheyrat.

Ms. Gheyrat told Radio Zamaneh that his file has not been sent to the courts yet and his charges have not yet been clarified. However, she expressed optimism regarding his release as early as next week adding that the rest of his case will be processed after his release.

Jafar Panahi was arrested last December and since five days ago he has gone on a hunger strike to engage the attention of his keepers in his demands which include “contact and visiting privileges with his family and assurances about their well-being”. “the right to a lawyer after 77 days in prison”, and “unconditional release until his trial and final sentencing.”

According to Panahi’s lawyer, the court has agreed to the first two demands and the third one is also in the process of meeting their approval.

Ms. Gheyrat added that the detained filmmaker is weakened by his ordeal but his morale remains high and appears to be strong and determined. He has reportedly met with his attorney and family twice and contrary to their advice still refuses to break his hunger strike.