New York, July 2, 2026 – The following statement has been issued by the Wildlife Conservation Society:

“We at WCS express profound concern and alarm regarding the recent reported detention of wildlife conservationists Sepideh Kashani and Houman Jowkar, along with Sepideh’s sister Sima Kashani in Tehran on July 1, 2026.

“Mr. Jowkar and his wife Ms. Kashani are among the world's leading experts on the critically endangered Asiatic cheetah. Through their pioneering work with the Persian Wildlife Heritage Foundation, they dedicated years to studying and preserving the few remaining individuals of this unique population.

"Mr. Jowkar for many years headed the government’s cheetah conservation effort and among his many actions to highlight the importance of the species for Iran, he led an effort to emblazon the Asiatic cheetah on the jerseys of Iran’s national football team, seen by billions around the world in the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup.  Arrested in 2018 for their conservation work and finally pardoned in 2024, the international scientific community welcomed the opportunity for these dedicated specialists to safely resume their vital work.

“We respectfully call upon the relevant authorities in the Islamic Republic of Iran to clarify the legal status and current whereabouts of Ms. Kashani, Mr. Jowkar, and Sima Kashani immediately. We urge authorities to ensure they have immediate, unrestricted access to legal representation, family contact and medical care; we understand that Sima Kashani suffers from a chronic medical condition that requires special care. 

“Houman, Sepideh and Sima have a deep love for their country and its unique natural heritage. WCS respectfully calls for their prompt release so they may return to their families.”

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