Originally posted by the Voice of America.
Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America,
a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in
the public domain.


Iran Extends Prisoner Furloughs amid COVID Threat

RFE/RL

   Iran's president said the country has extended furloughs for prisoners
   for another month as officials struggle to curtail the spread of the
   coronavirus.

   Hassan Rouhani's announcement on Sunday followed an earlier decision to
   allow so-called low-risk businesses-- including many shops, factories,
   and workshops --to resume operations in Tehran.

   Rouhani said mosques and other religious centers would remain closed
   for another two weeks and that decisions on gatherings during Ramadan
   will be decided later.

   The Islamic holy month is scheduled to begin April 23.

   Iran has reported more than 80,000 confirmed infections and more than
   5,000 deaths. But many Iranians and other experts think the government
   has intentionally underreported the extent of the pandemic.

.