Toomaj Salehi, a well-known Iranian rapper, has been handed a prison sentence of six years and three months for his participation in the widespread protests that shook Iran last year. This information comes from Salehi's supporters and Ye-One Rhie, a German parliament member advocating for his release, via social media. Iranian officials have yet to confirm the sentencing.

Salehi's arrest last October followed the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman who died in police custody after being detained for allegedly violating Iran's strict dress code. Amini's death sparked nationwide protests, with many calling for the overthrow of the Iranian government. Salehi, 33, actively participated in these demonstrations.

The rapper was known for his music videos and songs that openly criticized the Iranian regime. These creative works gained significant traction online, including a video on YouTube with over 450,000 views where he seemingly referenced Amini, rapping, "Someone's crime was dancing with her hair in the wind." Another piece of his work expressed anticipation for the end of Iran's theocratic rule, stating, "Your whole past is dark, the government that took the light out of the eyes... We go from the bottom of the pyramid and knock to the top... Forty-four years of your government, this is the year of failure."

After his arrest, state-controlled media circulated a video of Salehi blindfolded and offering an apology, which human rights organizations believe was coerced under duress, a common practice in Iran according to these groups.

The protests, which largely subsided earlier this year, resulted in a severe crackdown by Iranian authorities. Human Rights Activists in Iran, an organization closely monitoring the situation, reports over 500 deaths and nearly 20,000 arrests. While Iranian officials claim many detainees have been released or received reduced sentences, the unrest continues to fuel widespread discontent. Seven individuals have been executed in connection with the protests, accused of assaulting security forces, after trials criticized for lacking due process. Prior to the sentencing announcement, there were concerns among Salehi's supporters that he might also face the death penalty.