Iranian-American Journalist Faces Threats as Assassination Plot Disrupted

Thu Oct 30 2025 21:09:24 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Masih Alinejad, a journalist and activist, confronts the potential consequences of a foiled assassination plot against her life. As justice is pursued, the implications for freedom of expression and women's rights remain at the forefront.

Masih Alinejad, an Iranian-American journalist, has become a target for assassination plotted by crime figures after her outspokenness against the Iranian regime. Prosecutors revealed chilling details about the plot, which aimed to intimidate Alinejad into silence. As the sentencing of her would-be assassins approaches, Alinejad prepares to address the court, emphasizing her commitment to free expression and women's rights.

NEW YORK (AP) — Iranian-American journalist Masih Alinejad, a prominent voice for women's rights in Iran, recently found herself at the center of a chilling assassination plot. Prosecutors revealed in court that the plot, orchestrated by alleged members of the Russian mob, narrowly missed its target.

During an upcoming sentencing hearing, prosecutors are pushing for lengthy prison terms for Rafat Amirov and Polad Omarov, implicated in the conspiracy to murder Alinejad. Both defendants were found guilty after a trial that showcased alarming details, including a hired gunman’s persistent attempts to track Alinejad's whereabouts.

Defending Amirov, lawyers argue for a significantly reduced sentence, asserting their client's minimal involvement in the plot, while Omarov’s legal team cites personal threats to his safety in seeking leniency. Alinejad, however, remains resolute, ready to confront her attackers in court.

Originally from Iran, Alinejad has faced numerous threats due to her activism, including campaigns that encourage Iranian women to shed their hijabs as a form of protest. Her efforts brought her to the United States, where she has built a substantial following, challenging the oppressive regime she escaped.

Authorities noted that Iranian intelligence agency initially attempted to kidnap Alinejad before resorting to a plan that included a $500,000 bounty to silence her permanently.

“This is a powerful reminder of the risks faced by journalists and activists worldwide,” Alinejad wrote in a statement to supporters. “I will continue to speak my truth.”

With ongoing investigations and additional charges announced against Iranian officials implicated in the plot, Alinejad emphasizes the importance of vigilance in promoting human rights and freedom of expression.