Tehran, Jun 06 (V7N) – Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has approved the pardon or reduction of sentences for more than 2,000 prisoners across the country, according to state-run Press TV, citing Turkey's Anadolu Agency.
The decision was made following a request from Iran's Judiciary Chief Gholam Hossein Mohseni Ejei. As a result of the amnesty, a large number of inmates are expected to be released immediately, while others will benefit from reduced prison terms.
However, international media reports noted that individuals convicted of security-related offenses, particularly espionage and crimes deemed threatening to national security, are not included in the pardon.
The move comes amid ongoing economic challenges and social tensions in Iran. Since December of last year, thousands of people have reportedly been arrested during demonstrations held across the country in protest against rising living costs and the worsening economic situation.
Analysts believe that years of economic pressure, compounded by the impact of United States sanctions, have contributed to growing public dissatisfaction and have further complicated Iran's domestic situation.
The latest amnesty is being viewed by observers as a significant humanitarian gesture by the Iranian leadership, although critics argue that many political and security-related detainees remain excluded from the measure.
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