Iran: Man Sentenced to Three Years in Prison Over Pro-Israel Instagram Post
- Mahamunimodi Team
- Aug 12
- 2 min read
In a move highlighting Iran’s strict stance on online expression and political dissent, an Iranian court has handed down prison sentences to four individuals over their social media activity deemed supportive of Israel.
According to reports, the Second Branch of the Dezful Islamic Revolutionary Court has sentenced Milad Darvishpour to three years in prison for posting an Instagram story that expressed support for Israel during the country’s 12-day conflict in June. Authorities accused Darvishpour of engaging in “propaganda in favor of Israel” by sharing such content, which the court ruled was a violation of Iranian law.
The conflict in question, which took place in June, saw heightened tensions between Israel and its adversaries in the region. In Iran, where expressing pro-Israel sentiments is considered a serious offense due to the nation’s longstanding political opposition to the Israeli state, such acts are often prosecuted under charges of propaganda against the Islamic Republic or in favor of its perceived enemies.
In addition to Darvishpour’s case, three other residents of southern Masjed Soleyman were also convicted for similar actions on social media. Shahin Shirinzaban Azar, Mohammad Tajmirzadeh, and Hossein Heydari were each sentenced to six months in prison after being found guilty of “propaganda activities against the Islamic Republic” through Instagram stories they had posted.
These sentences reflect Iran’s ongoing efforts to control online narratives and punish expressions of political views that clash with the official state position. Social media activity in Iran is closely monitored, and criticism of the government or perceived support for its adversaries often leads to severe legal consequences. Human rights advocates have repeatedly condemned such measures, arguing that they violate the fundamental right to freedom of expression and are used as tools to silence dissent.
Comments