Activists have accused Iran's 'morality police' of beating 16-year-old Armita Geravand in Tehran, resulting in her falling into a coma. The incident, which occurred at a metro station allegedly due to her not wearing a hijab, has led to her hospitalization at a military hospital with strict security and no family visitation allowed. This event echoes the death of Jina Mahsa Amini, who died in custody of the 'morality police', sparking significant anti-government protests. Iranian officials claim Geravand fainted due to low blood pressure, but activists and international observers are skeptical, demanding the release of full video footage. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has called the situation 'unbearable' and an independent international investigation has been demanded by the NGO Iran Human Rights.

Women's rights in Saudi Arabia have historically been more restricted compared to neighboring countries due to the dominance of Sharia law. Despite international criticism of human rights in Saudi Arabia, reforms have been initiated since 2017 under King Salman's orders, including lifting some bans as part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's efforts for economic and social transformation. These include allowing women to obtain passports and travel abroad without male guardian approval and the right to drive. However, discrimination persists in other areas, and women's rights activists still face arrest, trial, imprisonment, or are forced into silence. The World Economic Forum's 2020 Global Gender Gap Report ranked Saudi Arabia 146th out of 153 countries, indicating a long road ahead for gender equality. The interview with Saudi-born activist, blogger, nurse, and physician Omaima Najjar, who now studies in Ireland, reveals her involvement in the women's rights movement and the impact of social media and NGOs in organizing and advocating for change. The recent legal changes are seen as superficial by some, serving more as a public relations move for the Saudi government rather than substantial improvements in women's rights.