This ruling marks a significant moment in the long struggle for justice for the victims of one of the most heinous crimes in recent history. The 1988 massacre, a dark chapter in Iran’s history, saw the execution of over 30,000 political prisoners, primarily members and supporters of the People’s Mojahedin of Iran (PMOI/MEK). The mass executions were carried out under a fatwa issued by then-supreme leader Ruhollah Khomeini, leading to a systematic purge of political dissenters.
On July 14, 2022, Noury was convicted of grave violations of international law and murder, receiving a life sentence in a groundbreaking trial that spanned nine months and 92 sessions.
Throughout the trial, survivors, witnesses, and relatives of the massacre’s victims gave harrowing testimonies, shedding light on the atrocities committed within Iran’s prisons. Part of the trial was held in Durres, Albania, where PMOI members residing in Ashraf 3 provided critical evidence against Noury and other regime officials.
This appeals verdict arrives amid attempts by the Iranian regime to exert political pressure and engage in hostage-taking to influence European authorities. Despite these tactics, the court’s decision stands as a testament to the resilience of justice.
In response to the ruling, Iranians and PMOI/MEK supporters worldwide have rallied, demanding accountability for all involved in the 1988 massacre and other crimes against humanity.
Maryam Rajavi, the president-elect of the NCRI, echoed these sentiments, stressing the need to prosecute the architects of the massacre. She highlighted the continued impunity of these individuals as a catalyst for ongoing crimes in Iran and beyond. The verdict is hailed as a victory for the Iranian people and their resistance movement, who have long sought justice for the regime’s crimes.
It honors the memory of the victims, many of whose burial sites remain unknown, and acknowledges the suffering of the survivors. Remarkably, from August 2021 to November 2023, Iranian expatriates and supporters of the Iranian Resistance staged 121 demonstrations, rallies, and press conferences in Stockholm, braving harsh weather conditions, including sub-zero temperatures, to make their voices heard.
The case’s impact is already apparent, influencing the behavior of Iranian officials on the international stage. For instance, Ebrahim Raisi recently canceled a trip to Geneva, possibly due to fears of legal action. While this ruling is a significant step forward, it represents just one part of the broader struggle for justice and accountability in Iran. The ultimate goal, as voiced by the Iranian Resistance, is the establishment of a free and democratic republic in Iran, ending decades of tyranny and oppression.
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
