Yanar Mohammed, an esteemed advocate for women's rights in Iraq and a recipient of the Raft Prize in 2016, was tragically killed in an assassination outside her home in Baghdad. The executive director of the Raft Foundation, Jostein Hole Kobbeltvedt, confirmed that she was shot by two assailants early in the morning, highlighting the danger that comes with her efforts to champion women's rights despite the challenging circumstances in Iraq.

Although the exact motive for the attack remains unknown, Kobbeltvedt indicated it is premature to link it directly to the ongoing conflict in Iran. Nonetheless, it is widely recognized that Mohammed had faced numerous threats to her life due to her relentless advocacy for women's rights, indicating the hostile environment activists operate within in Iraq. Her work has spotlighted gender issues in a country where such rights are often under siege, and her death underscores the significant risks faced by human rights defenders.

The Raft Foundation expressed deep condolences to Mohammed's family, colleagues, and all who were close to her. In light of her tragic passing, they have stated their commitment to continuing her work, underscoring the importance of sustaining her initiatives for women's rights and safety in Iraq. This incident not only marks a significant loss for the activist community but also raises alarming concerns regarding the safety of human rights advocates in conflict zones.