799: Marina Nemat | Surviving Inside an Iranian Prison

Torture

Marina Nemat provides a vivid account of the physical and psychological torture she endured in Evin Prison. She describes the excruciating pain inflicted by lashing the soles of her feet with a thick rubber cable, a method designed to maximize suffering without causing unconsciousness. The pain was so intense that it traveled through her nervous system, making her entire body feel like it was being hit by lightning 1.

The pain wasn't just in my feet. It started there, but it would just travel and explode in my body.

--- Marina Nemat

Despite the unimaginable pain, Marina's resilience shone through as she navigated the psychological torment designed to break her spirit 2.

   

Resilience

Marina also recounts the tragic story of a girl who died under torture, highlighting the indiscriminate brutality of the regime. This incident, among others, led her torturer, Ali, to question his role and eventually resign from his position. Ali's connections allowed him to negotiate Marina's release, showcasing the complex interplay of power and personal relationships within the oppressive system 3.

He decided to resign. He said, 'I'm done with this. I'm not doing this anymore.'

--- Marina Nemat

Marina's release was a bittersweet moment, as it meant confronting the reality of her forced marriage and the lies she had to tell her family.

   

Control

The Islamic regime's control extended beyond physical torture to psychological manipulation and systemic oppression. Marina explains how the regime sought to control every aspect of an individual's life, demanding confessions and repentance for so-called 'corruption' 4.

This is about control. We will control every aspect of your body and your mind.

--- Marina Nemat

The regime's oppressive tactics were particularly harsh on women, who faced severe punishments for minor infractions like wearing nail polish or not covering their hair properly 5.

   

Gender Oppression

Marina highlights the gender-specific oppression women faced under the regime, including acid attacks for improper hijab and restrictions on personal freedoms. The Basij militia, often in civilian clothing, patrolled the streets to enforce these draconian rules, instilling fear among women 6.

They would either beat you by any means or throw acid in your face.

--- Marina Nemat

Men were also subjected to strict regulations, such as prohibitions on wearing jeans or being clean-shaven, reflecting the regime's desire to control all aspects of life 7.