Iranian psychologist Seyed Ahmad Seyedabdollahi has reportedly been sentenced to seven months in prison after posting a video urging President Donald Trump to support Iranians protesting against the country’s Islamic regime. His family says Iranian authorities pressured him to make Americans “look stupid”, highlighting the risks faced by people who publicly criticise the government or seek foreign support.

Seyedabdollahi, 32, made his appeal directly to Trump in a social-media video and was arrested 10 days later, according to the report. The case comes amid continued repression of dissent in Iran, where activists, protesters and others accused of challenging the authorities can face detention and criminal penalties.