HRANA – Navid Irani (Zarrin), a Baha’i citizen living in Mashhad who was arrested during the 2026 protests in the city, remains imprisoned in an uncertain legal status in Vakilabad Prison in Mashhad, despite more than four months having passed since his arrest.
Based on information received by HRANA, Mr. Navid Irani continues to be held in limbo at Vakilabad Prison in Mashhad, despite four months and four days having passed since his arrest.
Navid Irani (Zarrin), a Baha’i citizen and photographer residing in Mashhad, was arrested on January 15 in connection with the 2025 protests in the city of Mashhad.
It should be noted that protests and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28, 2025, and within two days spread beyond markets and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests became one of the largest protest movements of recent years. Following the crackdown by security and law enforcement forces, thousands were killed or injured, and tens of thousands were arrested or summoned by security agencies. For more information, readers may refer to HRANA’s comprehensive report titled “Crimson Winter,” documenting the first fifty days following the outbreak of Iran’s nationwide protests.
