Iranian authorities have reported that an Israeli airstrike on Evin Prison resulted in the deaths of 71 individuals, including detainees and prison staff. The incident has heightened concerns among families of the victims, especially regarding the fate of political prisoners held in the facility.
Israel's Airstrike on Evin Prison Claims 71 Lives, Iranian Sources Report
Israel's Airstrike on Evin Prison Claims 71 Lives, Iranian Sources Report
A devastating attack on Tehran's notorious Evin Prison has left 71 dead, according to Iranian state media, amidst ongoing tensions in the region.
Iranian state media announced on June 29, 2025, that an airstrike conducted by Israel on Evin Prison resulted in the death of 71 individuals. The attack took place on June 23 and has been described as a significant event, given the notorious reputation of Evin Prison in Tehran, which houses many political prisoners and dissidents.
According to a spokesman for the Iranian judiciary, Asghar Jahangir, the casualties included detainees, their visiting relatives, and prison staff. Families have expressed deep concern over the lack of communication with their loved ones since the strike, which has rendered them uncertain about the fates of those imprisoned within the walls of this infamous facility.
Evin Prison is known for holding a wide array of political prisoners, from opposition politicians to journalists and human rights activists. Rights organizations have condemned the facility for its harsh treatment, including allegations of torture, psychological humiliation, and summary executions.
An Israeli defense ministry spokesperson refrained from commenting on the claims made by Iranian authorities, and attempts to reach the Israeli military for additional information went unanswered. The strike on Evin was part of a broader Israeli military campaign targeting Iranian regime sites during a recent conflict that concluded with a cease-fire.
During the violent confrontations, more than 600 individuals lost their lives, according to reports from Iran’s health ministry. The attack on the prison marked the end of an operational focus aimed at eliminating key threats, including the headquarters of the Basij, which has been implicated in the suppression of protests in Iran.
Adding to the grim atmosphere surrounding the airstrike, recent reports indicated that Ali Ghanaatkar, the chief prosecutor of Evin Prison known for overseeing the cases against high-profile dissidents—including Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi—was among those killed in the assault.
