Two famous Iranian actresses arrested – state media

Iran state media is widely reporting that two famous Iranian actresses have been arrested for publically supporting mass anti-government protests. 

The actresses – Hengameh Ghaziani and Katayoun Riahi – are being accused of collusion and acting against Iran’s authorities, Irna news agency says. 

Both women had appeared in public without their headscarves – in solidarity with the protesters. 

The mass protesting started in September following the death of a woman in police custody. Mahsa Amini, 22, was arrested for breaking hijab rules. She died three days later in hospital. There are reports the officers beat her and banged her head. Police deny this. 

Before the arrest, Ms Ghaziani wrote on social media that “whatever happens, know that as always I will stand with the people of Iran”.

“This maybe my last post,” she added.

Many high-profile Iranian public figures have expressed support for the protesters. 

The captain of Iran’s national football team said that “we have to accept that the conditions in our country are not right and our people are not happy”.

So far, some 400 demonstrators have been killed and 16,800 others arrested in a crackdown by security forces. 

Iran claims the protests are “riots” orchestrated by the country’s foreign enemies. 

At least five protesters have been sentenced to death in connection with the protests.