Mousavi Backers Tortured, Told to Confess Foreign Plot

Regime seeks to force 'confessions' implicating reformist in conspiracy

By Rob Quinn, Newser Staff

Posted Jun 27, 2009 7:20 AM CDT

(Newser) – Iran's opposition says prominent supporters have been tortured in an effort to extract "confessions" that foreign forces in league with Mir Hossein Mousavi are plotting against the Islamic republic, the Guardian reports. Amnesty International, citing "very credible sources," says screams have been heard from reformist politicians jailed in the section of Tehran's Evin prison reserved for political prisoners.

Hundreds of activists, journalists, and academics are believed to have been jailed since Iran began cracking down on protests over the disputed election. Several people have appeared on TV confessing to being "terrorists" for taking part in protests. A senior cleric with strong ties to the regime told worshippers yesterday rioters should be punished firmly and mercilessly, referring to them as "those who wage war against God."

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Protesters hold signs in support of Mir Hossein Mousavi in Tehran. (©@@:@@)

Riot police on motorcycles patrol the streets of Tehran. (©.faramarz)

Reformist candidate Mir Hossein Mousavi speaks on the final day of election rallies earlier this month. (AP Photo/Mehr News Agency, Bager Nasir)

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Any quote or remarks made by these people in the current situation has no credibility. My husband's only crime is his efforts to secure a high turnout. - Fakhrosadat Mohtashamipour, wife of a reformist politician jailed since the day after the election

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Mousavi Backers Tortured, Told to Confess Foreign Plot