Bernard Phelan was working in Iran when he was arrested on false charges of spying on the 3rd of October, 2022, becoming a political hostage during a wave of anti-government protests that saw countless thousands take to the streets.
He shared 'Satan's Block' in Mashad prison with 15 other cellmates: violent men, political prisoners, drug traffickers and condemned inmates awaiting execution. In desperation, he went on a hunger strike and refused to take essential medication in an effort to secure his freedom.
He was finally released from prison in May 2023 after being held hostage for over seven months following a heartfelt campaign by his family and the Irish government.
This is his story.
