Oscar-winning Iranian filmmaker, Asghar Farhadi, has asked “artists, filmmakers, intellectuals, civil rights activists” from all over the world to stand in solidarity with the protestors in Iran. After a 22-year-old Kurdish woman, Mahsa Amini, died in custody in Iran, massive protests have erupted across the country. Amini was reportedly arrested for wearing her hijab in an “improper” manner.

In his statement, which he posted in a video on Instagram, the 50-year-old filmmaker said, “I invite all artists, filmmakers, intellectuals, civil rights activists from all over the world … everyone who believes in human dignity and freedom, to stand in solidarity with the powerful and brave women and men of Iran by making videos, in writing or any other way”.

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The director said that he was impressed by “progressive and courageous women leading protests for their human rights alongside men”. He also stated that the Iranian state has been denying women their “simple yet fundamental rights” for years. He continued, “This society, especially these women, has travelled a harsh and painful path to this point, and now they have clearly reached a landmark.”

Regarding the commitment of the protestors, Farhadi said, “I saw outrage and hope in their faces, and in the way they marched in the streets. I deeply respect their struggle for freedom and the right to choose their own destiny, despite all the brutality they are subjected to.”

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AFP reports that around 41 people have been killed in the protests that have been raging on in Iran. However, the official death toll currently stands at 71. 

Iran’s Interior Minister, Ahmad Vahidi, said regarding Amini’s death, “Reports from oversight bodies were received, witnesses were interviewed, videos were reviewed, forensic opinions were obtained and it was found that there had been no beating”.

Farhadi has won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Film for his directorial ventures, in 2011 for A Separation and in 2016 for The Salesman.