Amnesty Calls Israeli Evin Prison Strike War Crime, Reports 80 Civilian Deaths

Amnesty International has condemned Israel for its airstrike on Tehran's Evin prison on June 23, labeling the attack a war crime due to the deliberate targeting of a civilian facility during visiting hours, which resulted in the deaths of at least 80 people, including prisoners, staff, visitors, and nearby residents. The prison, known for holding political dissidents and human rights defenders, was housing between 1,500 and 2,000 inmates at the time, with no evidence indicating it was used for military purposes. The strike caused extensive damage to multiple locations within the prison complex and surrounding residential areas, while also impacting civilian infrastructure across Tehran Province, including schools, hospitals, and homes. Iranian authorities reported casualties including students, educators, medical staff, and paramedics, and noted that 75 inmates escaped during the attack, though 48 have since returned or been detained. Israeli officials acknowledged the strike, describing it as targeting regime repression bodies and claiming intelligence activities were carried out within the prison; however, Amnesty International and other rights groups have called for criminal investigations under international humanitarian law, urging the use of universal jurisdiction to hold those responsible accountable. Reconstruction and humanitarian efforts are underway as Iran continues to monitor the situation closely.