In a December 2024 interview, Vida Mehrannia opens up about the emotional toll that the arbitrary detention of her husband Ahmadreza Djalali in Iran has taken on their family. She describes the harrowing experiences her family endures, particularly when Ahmadreza is placed in solitary confinement and threatened with execution. Vida highlights the nightmare they are continuously living, especially after Ahmadreza was left behind in the recent prisoner swap between Sweden and Iran. She calls for stronger action from Sweden and the EU, stating that diplomatic efforts will remain meaningless until Ahmadreza is freed.

How is the family coping with Ahmadreza’s prolonged arbitrary detention & his death sentence?

Ahmadreza’s arbitrary detention for the past 8 years and 8 months has been unbearable, our family has been living a never ending nightmare. We try to stay strong and fight for his release, the hope of his return home is what keeps us going.

How do you deal with and overcome frustration when things don’t seem to move forward?

We have undergone many hardships and devastating times the past years, including the serious threats of execution and disappointment from the lack of action by the Swedish government and the EU. The support from people worldwide and Ahmadreza’s strength in Evin is what inspires us to keep going and not give up despite the frustration.

How do you stay hopeful and lift Ahmadreza’s spirits?

Our short calls with Ahmadreza are what keeps his spirits uplifted, especially when he speaks to our youngest, who is now 12 years old. Ahmadreza’s strength gives us hope, he inspires us everyday.

What are the toughest parts and main challenges of trying to save Ahmadreza?

We have been fighting tirelessly, every day for over eight years, for Ahmadreza’s release. However, we cannot do it on our own, we need the EU and the Swedish government to act strongly to bring Ahmadreza home. The toughest times in the past years have been times when Ahmadreza has been taken to solitary confinement, threatened with immediate execution and when he was left behind in the recent deal between Sweden and Iran. I cannot describe in words the pain our family has suffered during these times.

Are you getting the support you need from organizations, the media, and others? How could they help more?

We have received great support from organizations such as Amnesty, Scholars at Risk and Hostage Aid. Also the scientific community including many universities as well as Nobel Laureates have been of great support. Nevertheless, more support is needed until Ahmadreza is released. His case must remain under the spotlight and receive continuous media attention, and pressure needs to be put on Western governments to act. We must continue to be Ahmadreza’s voice.

How frequently does the family talk to Ahmadreza? How is he holding up?

Ahmadreza is allowed to call us weekly now, although this has not been the case all the time. There have been long periods of time when he has been denied even a single call to us. Although he can call, he has not been able to see his children for over 8 years now, and it is very difficult for him. He is under huge psychological stress and only holds up because of the hope of being back with our family one day.

Are there any updates on what Sweden is doing to free Djalali after they left him behind in the swap with Iran?

The Swedish government always says that they are following and working on his case but unless he is free, the actions are not strong enough. No improvements in his case or situation have occurred since the swap.

Has the Swedish Government’s involvement in Ahmadreza’s case been enough? And what specific actions have you found most helpful or lacking?

The Swedish government’s work on his case has not been enough, in any way. Sweden decided to leave Ahmadreza behind in the recent swap, despite him being the longest held Swedish citizen in Evin prison, under constant threat of execution, and with many health complications. Additionally, no improvements have been made in his case since the swap. Sweden must guarantee Ahmadreza’s release.

The European Parliament mentions Ahmadreza in most of its resolutions on Iran. Do you think that is enough? What would you ask them to do?
I think the European Parliament should collaborate with the Swedish government and stand up strongly against Iran. Consequences should be made clear if EU hostages including Ahmadreza are not released. Unless clear, strong actions are taken by the EU, Iran will continue to take hostages.