Reports that seven Iranian Bahá’í leaders have each received prison sentences of 20 years have been met with condemnation from governments and human rights organisations around the world, with Australia, France, Germany, Canada and the President of the European Parliament expressing strong statements of concern.

Shohreh Fleming, a Bahá’í who was born in Iran but now lives in West Berkshire, said: “They are calling for the prisoners to be released on bail, for an annulment of the judgement, and for Iran to demonstrate that the trial was fair and in accordance with international standards.

“The Bahá’í International Community deeply appreciates the committed support offered so far by governments and human rights organisations.

“These statements demonstrate that increasing numbers of people of all races and religions throughout the world want to see justice done in Iran – not just for the Bahá’ís but all of its citizens who face gross human rights violations.”