For many, the Evin Prison in Tehran is synonymous with repression and human rights abuses. On June 23, 2025, the prison became the site of Israel's deadliest strike on Iranian soil, resulting in over 80 casualties. Political activist Motahareh Goonei was detained in solitary confinement when Israeli missiles hit the facility. For me, hell was not the moment Israel attacked; hell was the moment they wouldn't open the door [of the cell] for us, she shared in an exclusive interview with BBC Persian.
Goonei detailed how initial panic engulfed the prison as explosions reverberated through the compound. Guards initially attempted to prevent inmates from escaping, creating further chaos. Amid the turmoil, she witnessed prisoners and staff aiding one another, highlighting the remarkable humanity even in the most horrific circumstances.
The Israeli Defense Forces claimed the strike targeted facilities involved in intelligence operations against them; however, many civilians were caught in the crossfire. In the aftermath, experts identified the attack as a potential violation of international humanitarian law, raising serious questions about accountability and the protection of civilians in conflict zones.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the perils faced by those trapped in violence, particularly in a penal environment, where the lines of survival become perilously thin.
Goonei detailed how initial panic engulfed the prison as explosions reverberated through the compound. Guards initially attempted to prevent inmates from escaping, creating further chaos. Amid the turmoil, she witnessed prisoners and staff aiding one another, highlighting the remarkable humanity even in the most horrific circumstances.
The Israeli Defense Forces claimed the strike targeted facilities involved in intelligence operations against them; however, many civilians were caught in the crossfire. In the aftermath, experts identified the attack as a potential violation of international humanitarian law, raising serious questions about accountability and the protection of civilians in conflict zones.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the perils faced by those trapped in violence, particularly in a penal environment, where the lines of survival become perilously thin.
