Toomaj Salehi, a dissident Iranian rapper known for his music critical of the government and in support of the 2022 protests in Iran, has been sentenced to death. The verdict was confirmed by his lawyer, Amir Raesian, who plans to appeal the sentence in hopes of reducing it.

Salehi's troubles began in October 2022, when he was arrested during the uprising following the death of Mahsa Amini, a young woman who died while in custody of Iran's morality police. Salehi faced charges of "spreading corruption on earth," a capital offense, for releasing music that criticized the government and urged his followers to join the protests.

During the legal proceedings, allegations surfaced that Salehi had been subjected to solitary confinement and torture, with reports of physical injuries including a broken nose, broken fingers, and damaged legs. Concerns were also raised about closed-door court hearings held without his lawyer present.

In July 2023, Salehi was initially sentenced to over six years in prison, with an additional ban on making music or singing for two years. However, in November of that year, he was released on bail after Iran's Supreme Court acknowledged flaws in the original sentence. Unfortunately, Salehi was arrested again just two weeks later.

Salehi's lawyer expressed concern over the death sentence handed down by the Isfahan court, as it seemingly disregarded the ruling from the higher Supreme Court. The news of the death sentence has elicited strong condemnation from various government and advocacy groups.

The U.S. Envoy to Iran's office condemned Salehi's death sentence and highlighted the case of another artist, Kurdish-Iranian rapper Saman Yasin, who had received a five-year prison sentence. They called for the immediate release of both artists, criticizing the Iranian regime for its brutal treatment of its own citizens and its disregard for human rights.

PEN America's Artists at Risk Connection project also condemned the sentence, stating that it was a flagrant violation of human rights and free expression. They emphasized the importance of protecting artists like Salehi, who use their creativity to express dissent against authoritarian regimes.

The news of Salehi's sentence has reached the American hip-hop community, with rapper Meek Mill posting on social media to raise awareness and demand Salehi's freedom.

Elica Le Bon, a lawyer and Iranian-American activist, described Salehi as a beloved icon for the Iranian people who had the courage to express the reality of life under the oppressive regime through his music. Le Bon addressed the need for international attention to potentially save Salehi's life, as the Iranian government tends to reconsider executing prisoners who have gained recognition on a global scale. She urged readers to use hashtags like #FreeToomaj and #ToomajSalehi to help raise awareness and show support.

The case of Toomaj Salehi is just one among many political prisoners facing execution in Iran, including Reza Rasaei, Mojahed Kourour, and Abbas Deris. Additionally, an American national, Jamshid Sharmahd, has been sentenced to death and is currently held in solitary confinement.

Advocates and activists continue to push for the release of Salehi and other prisoners, highlighting the importance of human rights and freedom of expression in Iran. The international community's support and attention are crucial in potentially saving the lives of these individuals who have risked everything for truth and freedom.