Despite nearly four years of enduring brutal conditions, their spirits remain unbroken, symbolizing a beacon of resistance. Moradi and Younesi’s incarceration stems back to April 10, 2020, when they vanished mysteriously. After 26 days of uncertainty, the Iranian regime’s judiciary conceded to having them in custody, alleging their association with the People’s Mojahedin of Iran (PMOI/MEK).
Accused of “diversionary actions” and plotting “sabotage operations,” they were reportedly found with explosive devices in their homes, claims that appear to be part of trumped-up charges. Both students have since faced severe torture and prolonged solitary confinement, ultimately receiving a harsh sentence of 16 years imprisonment.
The students’ academic accolades speak volumes of their potential. Younesi, a recipient of the gold medal at the 12th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics in China (2018), and earlier, silver and gold medals at the National Astronomy Olympiad (2016 and 2017), is a testament to Iran’s academic prowess. Moradi, too, boasts a silver medal from the 2017 Olympiad, underscoring their elite status.
Their open letter, released on this significant day, resonates with the struggles of Iran’s people against tyranny. “We mark December 7 [Iran’s Student Day] in conditions that the Islamic Republic is resorting to mass executions and arrests to spread despair,” the letter reads, highlighting the regime’s fear of uprisings akin to those in 1999, 2009, 2017, and 2019.
It emphasizes the students’ pivotal role in these movements and their commitment to replacing any form of dictatorship, be it the Shah or mullahs, with a genuine democratic republic. Their words underscore the students’ unwavering resolve, despite facing an oppressive regime for over four decades.
![Moradi and Younesi's message is a stark reminder of the ongoing battle for freedom in Iran, a war that has claimed countless lives, including those of Mahsa [Amini] and Armita [Geravand], and many others executed or shot.](https://stopfundamentalism.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/ALI.jpg)
As Iran commemorates Student Day, the plight of Moradi and Younesi sheds light on the broader struggle for liberty and democracy within the nation. Their endurance and message of hope amidst adversity continue to inspire and galvanize students and citizens alike in their quest for a truly democratic Iran.
MEK Iran (follow us on Twitter and Facebook), Maryam Rajavi’s on her site, Twitter & Facebook, NCRI (Twitter & Facebook), and People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran – MEK IRAN – YouTu
