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Iran Sentences Jafar Panahi in Absentia to One Year as Awards Momentum Builds

His lawyer plans an appeal, leaving enforcement unclear.

Overview

  • Iran’s Revolutionary Court Branch 26 convicted the Palme d’Or–winning director of “propaganda activities,” issuing a one‑year prison term.
  • The ruling adds a two‑year ban on foreign travel and bars him from membership in political or social groups.
  • Panahi is currently outside Iran and was in New York receiving three Gotham Awards for It Was Just an Accident when the sentence became public.
  • France has selected the film as its official Academy Awards submission, and the movie’s campaign continues with further festival appearances planned.
  • Attorney Mostafa Nili said they will appeal the verdict as questions persist over how or whether the ruling can be enforced while Panahi remains abroad.