Iranian Maryam (Nasim) Naghash Zargaran, who was sentenced to four years in prison in 2013 for posing a threat to the security of the Islamic Republic of Iran, will soon serve her prison sentence. Maryam's main crime was that she had converted from Islam to the Christian faith and that she shared her faith with others and led a house church.
Maryam suffers after assault
Maryam has been struggling with poor health, especially in the last few years, because she has not received the necessary medical treatment in Evin Prison. She suffers from 'hole in the heart' disease (atrial septal defect), osteoporosis, arthritis and osteoarthritis in her back. However, after repeated hunger strikes and protests, Maryam has been on some short-term medical leaves where she has received treatment. According to Mohabat News, sources close to Maryam confirm that she had a period of leave during the Iranian New Year celebration, Nouruz, in March. These short periods of leave have resulted in her prison sentence being extended by a period that has now reached 55 days.
Not only has Maryam been struggling with chronic illness, but her foot is now injured after she was assaulted in prison, Mohabat says. It is reported that a non-political prisoner in the women's section of Evin Prison had an altercation with Maryam and caused her injury. A source close to Maryam's family confirms the accuracy of the incident.
No help from prison authorities
After this violent experience, Maryam complained about the 'battered woman', but she was not taken seriously by the prison authorities, nor did she receive medical treatment. Some prison officers explained to her that the women's ward was not their responsibility and others said that the prison prosecutor was on leave. After a visit to the prison, Maryam's family became aware of Maryam's poor health and the serious injury her fellow inmate had inflicted on her foot. The family subsequently tried to contact the prison director, but they were denied access.
Maryam and her family continue to need your support. You can help:
- To pray for Maryam and her family. Pray for healing, encouragement and strength.
- Sending a letter of encouragement to Maryam in prison to let her know she's not alone. See how here.
