Maryam returned to Evin prison on September 17. On August 28, the prison allowed her to go home to receive medical care, but under conditions that Maryam felt she could not comply with, resulting in her leave from prison being canceled.
Maryam, who was previously on medical leave due to various health issues in June 2016, began a hunger strike on July 5, demanding her immediate and unconditional release due to the inadequate treatment of her health problems. In early August, she ended the hunger strike at the urging of her family.
Maryam's health deteriorated significantly during the hunger strike. Her blood pressure dropped, she experienced pain and numbness in her feet, and experienced psychological problems as a result of her confinement.
Prison officials examined Maryam on July 20 and confirmed the seriousness of her condition in a medical report, but her request for release was rejected by an Iranian court on the orders of the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence (MOIS).
Maryam was arrested in January 2013 while working at an orphanage with Christian ex-convict Saeed Abedini. She was charged with "acting against national security" and sentenced to four years in prison, which she began serving on July 15, 2013 in the women's wing of Evin Prison. A request for a retrial was denied.
Those close to Maryam say she was unable to receive adequate treatment during the medical leave. They ask for prayers for:
- That Maryam will feel God's encouragement, strengthening and healing.
- That God will also encourage and support Maryam's family.
- That Maryam can be released from prison without conditions.
- That God will move the Iranian authorities and officials to love mercy and act justly.
You can comfort Maryam in prison by sending her an encouraging letter - read how here...
