Iran's judiciary sentenced on Saturday MP Abolfazl Zohrevand to prison on charges of “speaking against national security” during the 12-day war with Israel in June.
According to the Fars news agency, Zohrevand, a member of the Parliament's National Security Commission, was sentenced to 3 months and 1 day in prison based on a complaint from the Supreme National Security Council. However, the verdict is open to appeal at the Court of Appeals.
The MP was found guilty of “spreading public anxiety” after making statements deemed contrary to national security during an online interview about the 12-day conflict in June, the Mizan website reported.
Zohrevand rejected the ruling, saying he will raise the issue in a public hearing before parliament.
“I will formally object to the unconstitutional ruling,” he said. “Every MP has the right to express an opinion on internal and foreign political issues.”
During an online interview in June, Zohrevand described the government of President Masoud Pezeshkian as plotting to “end the revolution” and “terminate (Supreme Leader Ali) Khamenei’s rule.”
The MP, who formerly served as Iran’s ambassador to Italy and Afghanistan, had repeatedly criticized Iran for reaching a ceasefire with Israel. He is among the strongest opponents of resuming talks with the United States.
