Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi has announced his intention to return to Iran after the conclusion of the Oscar season, despite the potential risk of arrest due to the ongoing government crackdown following widespread anti-government demonstrations that have resulted in numerous casualties. Panahi, an Oscar-nominated director whose latest film, “It Was Just An Accident,” has been promoting internationally, was sentenced in absentia to a one-year prison term in Iran in December 2025 for alleged “propaganda activities” against the state.
Speaking in an interview with Radio Atlantic, Panahi confirmed his plan to return to Iran once the Oscar campaign concludes, emphasizing his commitment to his homeland. His lawyer, Mostafa Nili, revealed that the sentencing also includes a two-year travel ban within Iran and restrictions on joining any political or social organizations, with plans to file an appeal against the verdict.
Panahi was among several prominent figures who expressed solidarity with the nationwide protests against Iran’s Islamic Republic regime earlier this year, advocating for the people’s rights to freedom, justice, and sovereignty over their destiny. His film, “It Was Just an Accident,” filmed clandestinely in Iran without official approval, received critical acclaim and garnered two Oscar nominations for best international feature film and best original screenplay.
The movie, inspired by Panahi’s personal encounters during his own imprisonments for alleged anti-government activities and interactions with inmates at Tehran’s Evin Prison, has received accolades, including the prestigious Palme D’Or at the Cannes Film Festival and multiple awards at the Gotham Awards. Despite the political undertones of his work, Panahi considers himself a socially conscious filmmaker rather than a strictly political one.
Panahi’s co-writer, Mehdi Mahmoudian, and journalist Vida Rabbani, who were detained in Iran after supporting the protests, faced similar repercussions for their activism. Panahi recounted his communication with Mahmoudian, who was arrested in January, underscoring the challenging circumstances faced by dissenting voices in Iran.
The situation in Iran remains tense, with reports of escalating violence and human rights abuses during the recent protests. The death toll from the crackdown has surpassed 7,000, according to human rights activists, with thousands more injured or detained. The international community has condemned the Iranian government’s actions and called for the immediate release of political prisoners like Narges Mohammadi, who has been subjected to severe mistreatment and abuse while in custody.
As the unrest in Iran continues to unfold, concerns persist about the accuracy of official death toll figures provided by the government, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability in addressing the crisis.