Iran

In response to an inquiry from VOA Persian, the Canadian government stated that compulsory conscription in Iran’s armed forces, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), does not necessarily result in former conscripts being barred from entering Canada.

The IRGC has been added to Canada’s list of terrorist organizations, but a Canadian government spokesman said those fleeing Iran who were required to serve with the Iranian force would not be barred from Canada.

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Reports obtained by VOA Persian confirm that restrictions on female political prisoners at Vakilabad Prison in Mashhad remain in effect.

A recently released former inmate of Vakilabad Prison, speaking to VOA, revealed that the restrictions were imposed "without any prior notice" following a meeting between inmates of Ward 6 and political prisoner Fatemeh Sepehri, held outside the ward on December 5.

She added, "Prisoners' access to essential facilities, including the infirmary, store, kitchen, gym, and educational workshops, was entirely cut off during the initial days. None of the female prisoners were allowed to leave, and they were informed that if they needed anything, they should request it, and it would be purchased or delivered to them.”

Click here for the full story in Persian.