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Independent senator Fatima Payman has apologised for comments she made at a pro-Iranian event, where she told attendees to lobby politicians about Western “propaganda” on women’s experiences in Iran.

Payman spoke to Iranian state-backed outlet Press TV, which was sanctioned by the government last year. The senator said yesterday she was unaware of the media organisation’s affiliations.

“At the event, I listened to Australian-Iranian women share their personal experiences, describing life in Iran in positive terms,” she said.

“However, I recognise that my comments [with Press TV] did not reflect the realities of women who have suffered violence, brutality, and severe human rights abuses. My intention was never to downplay or minimise their pain. If my words caused hurt, I sincerely apologise.”

The footage, first reported by The Australian, reveals Payman expressing that Iran was an incredible place for women.

“The incredible place that Iran is, allowing for women to participate in the workforce to ensure that they have a voice, that their voices are heard … realities that we’re not privy to living here and listening to the propaganda that we receive from very single-sided organisations with specific agenda,” Payman told PressTV.