Iran Cracks Down on Women's Rights Activists Ahead of Protest Anniversary

Iran has arrested at least 12 female activists in an escalating crackdown ahead of the anniversary of the "woman, life, freedom" uprising. The arrests are part of an effort to suppress and intimidate protesters, with the regime fearing a resurgence of protests and resistance. The activists are accused of "anti-security activities," with two of them being accused, without evidence, of receiving money and training from Western security services. The whereabouts of the women and the exact charges they face remain unknown, and their families have had no contact with them. The crackdown comes after months of nationwide demonstrations against clerical rule and gender discrimination, sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini last year.