Iran accused of campaign of revenge as doctors are arrested

Rights groups report that Iranian authorities have detained several doctors and healthcare volunteers who treated people wounded in recent protests, and at least one surgeon faces a charge that can carry the death penalty; the US State Department has called for their release.

Authorities in Iran are reported to have detained a number of doctors and healthcare volunteers who treated people injured during recent anti-government protests, according to rights groups and medics. One surgeon, named by rights groups as Alireza Golchini, is reported to face a moharebeh charge, a crime that can carry the death penalty. Iranian officials have not publicly confirmed all of the reported detentions. International actors, including the US State Department, have publicly called for the release of detained healthcare workers. What officials and groups say: - Rights groups and medical networks report that several doctors and volunteers who treated injured protesters have been arrested. - Alireza Golchini is reported to be charged with moharebeh, a charge that can carry the death penalty. - The US State Department has called for the release of detained healthcare workers. - Rights groups report raids on makeshift medical shelters and limited information about the whereabouts and condition of those detained. Summary: The reported detentions have drawn concern from rights organisations and international officials over pressure on medical personnel during the protests. Undetermined at this time.