Mehdi Saharkhiz, son of distinguished journalist and prisoner of conscience Issa Saharkhiz, told the International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran that despite his poor health, his father’s spirits are high.

About a letter written by several journalists in Rajaee Shahr Prison proposing a live debate with Ahmadinejad, Mehdi Saharkhiz said, “After Ahmadinejad’s latest request to debate with Mr. Obama, and as his request was rejected again, [the imprisoned journalists] suggested in order to prevent dishonor and embarrassment of the Iranian people, at least allow the willing and able journalists to have a live debate with him in a free place. They’ve said, ‘If you want to manage the world, come and have a live and uncensored debate with us.’”

“I’ve been informed, from a series of sources, that he has been given a 15 months prison sentence, nine months of which is for [attempt] to topple [the regime], and six months for insulting the Supreme Leader. In addition to the 15 months, a 5-year separation from service has also been issued,” he said about his father’s sentence.

“It’s been a while since he was sent to Rajaee Shahr Prison. He has been in a poor physical condition.  As was evident in a photograph released after his court appearance, he lost a lot of weight and appeared weak. It could be said that mentally he is in a very good condition, but due to being away from Tehran, it is too difficult for his family to visit him. He should have never been sent to Rajaee Shahr Prison, as he is in prison for a press crime,” he added.

“In terms of health, he became very weak, and a few months ago he fell down in prison, and was taken to the infirmary. He was in need of several medications. He has become so thin. We are very concerned for his health, because he has a heart condition that has been said over and over again might cost him his life,” he said.