Picture Credit: Twitter
Iranian football player Amir Nasr-Azadani could be in danger to face execution for his role in the ongoing protests in Iran, as per reports of local media. Nasr-Azadani is a former player and has represented teams like Rah-Ahan, Tractor, and Gol-e Rayhan. The Islamic Republic’s judicial system is set to hang him for a crime it calls "moharebeh". Iran is under nationwide protests after the death of a 22-year-old, who died in police custody.
This 22-year-old Mahsa Amini died while being under custody of the nation’s morality police for evading the country’s dress code. The protests by the citizens of Iran calling for more freedom have led to the death of hundreds of citizens, mostly during protests.
Footballers' union FIFPRO which is the worldwide representative organisation for 65,000 professional football players also shared a tweet addressing the situation. FIFPRO expressed shock regarding the news about Amir Nasr-Azadani and demanded the authorities remove his punishment.
The tweet said, “FIFPRO is shocked and sickened by reports that professional footballer Amir Nasr-Azadani faces execution in Iran after campaigning for women’s rights and basic freedom in his country. We stand in solidarity with Amir and call for the immediate removal of his punishment.”
Check out the tweet here:
As per reports of IranWire, Nasr-Azadani and two others accused in the crime made an appearance on state television on November 20, where they read a "forced" confession. IranWire added that Nasr-Azadani was present at the protests. But reports add that he was never in the vicinity of the area where Cheraghi and the two Basij members were killed. And the source also added his involvement in the protests was limited to chanting slogans for a few hours.
