The family of 21-year-old twins, Taraneh and Romina Rahimi, have appealed to the United Nations for help after the sisters were sentenced to death and decades in jail in Iran. The twins were charged with 'moharebeh' (waging war against God) for participating in nationwide protests against the Iranian regime in Isfahan on 8 and 9 January.
Taraneh Rahimi was sentenced to death, along with nine others, at the end of August, while Romina Rahimi received a 25-year prison sentence. British human rights lawyers have submitted a formal 'submission of information' to the UN on the family's behalf. This action could potentially lead to the UN's human rights council engaging in discussions with the Iranian regime if human rights violations are identified.
The twins' cousin, Masoud Nourmohammadi, stated he turned to the UN out of desperation, seeking a fair process, protection from torture and abuse, access to medical care and legal counsel, and genuine case reviews for the sisters. The family claims Taraneh was threatened with being forced to watch her sister's rape if she did not sign a confession, and both sisters are said to have been subjected to torture.
Neither Taraneh nor Romina have been seen by their mother or other family members since their sentencing. Taraneh is reportedly in need of surgery due to injuries sustained during interrogation. Iran has executed over 500 people this year, including at least 16 women, with hundreds more protesters facing death sentences or charges that could carry the death penalty.