Oscar-Nominated Screenwriter Arrested in Iran for Criticizing Regime
3 minute readPublished: Monday, February 2, 2026 at 3:04 am
Oscar-Nominated Screenwriter Detained in Iran
Iranian authorities have arrested Mehdi Mahmoudian, an Oscar-nominated screenwriter and human rights activist. The arrest has sparked international concern, particularly given Mahmoudian's history of detention and his outspoken criticism of the Iranian regime.
Mahmoudian co-wrote the film "It Was Just an Accident," which is nominated for both Best Original Screenplay and Best International Feature. The film's narrative centers on former prisoners who kidnap a man they believe was involved in their torture.
Mahmoudian's background as a human rights advocate and his previous experiences with imprisonment are central to his work. He previously spent time in prison, where he met the film's director, Jafar Panahi. Panahi has stated that Mahmoudian's insights into the prison system and his human rights work made him a crucial contributor to the film. Panahi emphasized Mahmoudian's firsthand knowledge of the judicial system and prison life, gained through his own years of imprisonment.
The film's co-writers include Nader Saeivar and Shadhmer Rastin. The arrest has prompted calls for the prosecution of those responsible for the repression.
BNN's Perspective:
The arrest of a prominent screenwriter, especially one with a history of human rights activism, raises serious questions about freedom of expression and the treatment of dissidents in Iran. While the Iranian government has the right to maintain order, the detention of individuals for expressing their views or participating in artistic endeavors is a concerning trend. The international community should closely monitor this situation and advocate for Mahmoudian's fair treatment and release.
Keywords: Mehdi Mahmoudian, Iran, arrest, screenwriter, Oscar nomination, human rights, It Was Just an Accident, Jafar Panahi, prison, film, repression, freedom of expression, international feature, original screenplay, Nader Saeivar, Shadhmer Rastin, Iranian regime, detention