Category: Religious Minorities

Increased Pressure on Baluch and Arab Communities: 49 Citizens Arrested in Khuzestan and Sistan-Baluchestan

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Ethnic Minorities, News, Religious Minorities
Arab citizen, Baluch, ethnic rights, Khuzestan, Sistan & Baluchestan

HRANA News Agency – In recent days, Iranian security forces have conducted widespread, simultaneous arrests of dozens of Baluch and Arab citizens in the Khuzestan and Sistan & Baluchestan provinces, long regarded as hotspots of human rights tensions and repression. These mass arrests signal escalating pressures on the residents of these regions, once again underscoring the systemic violations of the rights of ethnic and religious minorities in Iran.

To date, the identities of 49 detainees have been verified, but the reasons for their arrests and the whereabouts of many remain unknown. This report aims to shed light on the scale of these incidents and the condition of those detained.

According to HRANA, the news agency of Human Rights Activists in Iran, the arrests took place in areas predominantly inhabited by diverse ethnic and religious groups, who continue to face significant human rights challenges. Local sources report increasing restrictions and intensifying pressures on Baluch and Arab citizens, further complicating daily life for these communities.

Arrests in Sistan-Baluchestan

The identities of 19 detainees in this province have been confirmed:

. Mir Khan Naroui
. Iman Naroui
. Milad Naroui (two individuals with the same name)
. Mehrshad Naroui
. Mohammad Naroui
. Fazl-Ahmad Naroui
. Farshid Naroui
. Safar Naroui
. Abdolhakim Bandour
. Abdolhamid Bandour
. Iman Dahmardeh
. Yasin Naroui
. Mehdi Naroui
. Azin Naroui
. Aminollah Naroui
. Mohsen Naroui
. Musa Naroui
. Majid Naroui

Arrests in Khuzestan

HRANA has identified 30 detainees in this province:

. Saeed Esmail Mazraeh
. Ahlam Abeyyat (Bandar)
. Ayoub Gheibipour
. Reza Heidari
. Javad Heidari
. Ali Savari
. Foad Mousavi
. Javad Afri
. Yasin Silavi
. Ali Koroushat
. Mohammad Naseri
. Younes Ghorbavi
. Reza Zahiri
. Hashem Mousavi
. Khaled Amouri
. Ali Amouri
. Mohammad Amouri
. Milad Bahri
. Sadegh Mansouri
. Mansour Jassemi
. Ahmad Jalali
. Hossein Saeidi
. Saeed Fallahi
. Ahmad Khaledi
. Ayoub Tarafi
. Yousef Saeedi
. Mohammad Ayashi
. Ali Savari
. Mohammad Shakhitipour (Abeyyat)
. Saeed Doraghi

The reasons for these arrests and the current whereabouts of many detainees remain unclear. Local sources suggest that the actual number of arrests may exceed official reports, and efforts to identify additional detainees are ongoing.

The mass arrests of Baluch and Arab citizens in Khuzestan and Sistan-Baluchestan reflect an intensification of repression against these communities. These actions not only violate fundamental human rights but also exacerbate the challenges faced by people in these regions. This situation underscores the urgent need for international human rights organizations and the global community to address these violations. Given the gravity of the situation, legal and diplomatic pressure to prevent the continuation of such actions is more critical than ever.

According to data from the Department of Statistics and Publications of HRA in 2024, Khuzestan Province ranked second in reported human rights violations by Iran’s regime, trailing only Tehran Province. Despite being sixteenth in population, Sistan and Baluchestan Province ranked fifth in this grim tally, underscoring the disproportionate level of violations in the region.

Christian Convert Ghazal Marzban Sentenced to Prison, Flogging, and Additional Restrictions

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Freedom of Expression, News, Religious Minorities
Evin Prison, Ghazal Marzban, HRANA, Iman Afshari

Ghazal Marzban, a Christian convert detained in Evin Prison, has been sentenced to six months in prison, 74 lashes, and supplementary penalties by Branch 26 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court.

According to HRANA, citing Hyrakani, Ms. Marzban was convicted of “propaganda against the regime” and “appearing in public without a hijab.” The ruling, issued by Judge Iman Afshari, stipulates that one-third of the six-month prison sentence is enforceable, with the remaining portion suspended. Additionally, she has been sentenced to 74 lashes and a five-year ban on mobile phone use as supplementary punishment.

In protest against her ongoing detention and judicial uncertainty, Ms. Marzban began a hunger strike on December 22, which she ended after six days.

A convert to Catholic Christianity, Ms. Marzban was arrested on November 5 near Tehran’s Vali-e-Asr Square for chanting protest slogans. After being held at the Vozara Detention Center, she was transferred to Evin Prison’s women’s ward on November 7.

A source previously informed HRANA, “Ms. Marzban spoke out in the crowd, appealing to Pope Francis about the widespread poverty and oppression in Iran, urging him to respond to the actions of the Iranian government. Her arrest was unrelated to her faith and was solely due to her public protest.”

Ghazal Marzban Jorshari, 41, is a law graduate and a resident of Tehran.

Court of Appeals Issues Sentences for 15 Baháʼí Citizens in Isfahan Province

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News, Religious Minorities
Azita Rezvani-Khah, Boshra Motahar, Farkhondeh Rezvan Pey, Firoozeh Rastinejad, Isfahan, Maryam Khorsandi, Mojgan Pourshafe Ardestani, Nasrin Khademi Ghaqarakhi, Nooshin Hemmat, Roya Azadkhosh, Sanaz Rasteh, Sara Shakib, Sholeh Ashouri, Shurangiz Bahamin

The Court of Appeals of Isfahan Province has issued the sentences of 15 Baháʼí citizens residing in Baharestan, Isfahan Province.

The original sentences, which included imprisonment and monetary fines, were confirmed for Mojgan Pourshafe Ardestani, Nasrin Khademi Ghaqarakhi, Azita Rezvani Khah, Sholeh Ashouri, Boshra Motahar, Sara Shakib, Roya Azadkhosh, Nooshin Hemmat, Shurangiz Bahamin, Sanaz Rasteh, Maryam Khorsandi, Farkhandeh Rezvan Pey, and Firoozeh Rastinejad. However, Samira Shakib and Mojdeh Bahamin were only fined, with their prison sentences revoked.

Branch 37 of the Court of Appeals issued its decision on November 20. The final ruling, recently communicated to their attorneys, confirmed the original sentences for 13 individuals while modifying those of two others.

Previously, these individuals were each sentenced by the Revolutionary Court of Isfahan to 5 years in prison, a fine of 50 million tomans, 5 years of social service restrictions, and a 2-year travel ban in May 2024. The charges stem from allegations of “propaganda against the Islamic Republic” and “participation in promotional and educational activities contrary to Islamic law.”

Among the defendants, 11 individuals were detained in 2021 and later released on bail. Security forces had also raided the homes of Mojdeh Bahamin, Farkhandeh Rezvan Pey, Boshra Motahar, and Samira Shakib during the investigation.

Baha’is are subjected to violations of their religious rights, comprising 82% of reports on infringements against religious minorities, according to HRA’s 2023 annual report.

The Baha’i faith is not recognized as a legitimate religion by Iranian authorities, leading to systematic and longstanding violations of the rights of Baha’is in the country. This includes the denial of their fundamental right to practice their religion, which constitutes a clear breach of both Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The United Nations covenant holds that every person has the right to freedom of religion, freedom of converting religion, as well as freedom of expression, individually or collectively; openly or secretly.

Baha’i Citizen Arshia Behin-Ayin Arrested in Isfahan

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News, Religious Minorities
Arshia Behin-Ayin, HRANA, Isfahan, ارشیا بهین آیین

On December 6, 2024, Arshia Behin-Ayin, a 36-year-old Baha’i citizen from Isfahan, was arrested by security forces and transferred to Dastgerd Prison.

According to a source who spoke to HRANA, the arrest occurred violently during a Baha’i ceremony on the outskirts of Isfahan. Agents from the Isfahan Intelligence Department, equipped with cameras and microphones, disrupted the gathering, used intimidation and physical force, and confiscated the mobile phones of attendees.

The source also reported that before being removed from the scene, Mr. Behin-Ayin was tied to a pole in an open area by the agents, further escalating the intimidation.

This incident marks another instance of the systemic targeting of Baha’i citizens in Iran for their religious beliefs. Baha’is are subjected to violations of their religious rights, comprising 82% of reports on infringements against religious minorities, according to HRA’s 2023 annual report.

The Baha’i faith is not recognized as a legitimate religion by Iranian authorities, leading to systematic and longstanding violations of the rights of Baha’is in the country. This includes the denial of their fundamental right to practice their religion, which constitutes a clear breach of both Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The United Nations covenant holds that every person has the right to freedom of religion, freedom of converting religion, as well as freedom of expression, individually or collectively; openly or secretly.

Arrest of Javad Amini, a Christian Convert, in Nowshahr

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News, Religious Minorities
Christian Citizen, Christian convert, IRGC Intelligence, Javad Amini, Nowshahr, جواد امینی

On November 17, IRGC Intelligence agents arrested Javad Amini, a Christian convert, in Nowshahr, Mazandaran province, and transferred him to a detention facility in Sari. The arrest, reported by Article Eighteen News Outlet, is believed to be linked to his religious beliefs.

Following the arrest, agents raided Amini’s home, interrogating his wife and 10-year-old daughter in a tense and distressing environment.

According to the report, Mr. Amini is one of 12 Christian converts implicated in a joint legal case currently under review by the Nowshahr Revolutionary Court.

This is not the first time Mr. Amini has faced harassment. During the Christmas season last year, security forces searched his home and confiscated some of his personal belongings.

Christian converts in Iran are subject to severe restrictions, widespread security pressures, and systemic discrimination. They frequently face arbitrary arrests, exclusion from educational and employment opportunities, and workplace bias. These actions constitute blatant violations of human rights and the fundamental freedom of religion.

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Behrad Azargan, Baha’i Artist, Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison on Appeal

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News, Religious Minorities
Abdolqassem Salavati, Behrad Azargan, بهراد آذرگان

Behrad Azargan, a Baha’i musician residing in Tehran, has had his prison sentence reduced to seven years by Branch 36 of the Court of Appeals in Tehran Province. He had previously been sentenced at the primary trial to 11 years in prison, confiscation of seized belongings, a two-year ban on online activities, and a travel ban.

Under the ruling delivered by Branch 36 and conveyed to Mr. Azargan, he was sentenced to five years in prison for “engaging in educational or promotional activities deemed deviant to Islamic Sharia under the guise of sects, groups, or similar entities” and two years for “spreading falsehoods.”

Previously, Branch 15 of the Revolutionary Court in Tehran, presided over by Judge Salavati, had sentenced him to five years for the above-mentioned charge, four years for “membership in anti-regime groups,” and two years for “spreading falsehoods.” The court also ordered that items seized during the raid on his home be confiscated for the state. Furthermore, Azargan was banned for two years from online activities and from leaving the country.

On July 2, 2024, Azargan’s home in Tehran was searched by security agents, who confiscated personal belongings, including his phone and laptop.

On August 3, he was arrested after appearing before the Third Branch of the Prosecutor’s Office for Security for questioning regarding charges of “propaganda against the regime.” He was later released from Evin Prison on bail.

Baha’is are subjected to violations of their religious rights, comprising 82% of reports on infringements against religious minorities, according to HRA’s 2023 annual report.

The Baha’i faith is not recognized as a legitimate religion by Iranian authorities, leading to systematic and longstanding violations of the rights of Baha’is in the country. This includes the denial of their fundamental right to practice their religion, which constitutes a clear breach of both Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The United Nations covenant holds that every person has the right to freedom of religion, freedom of converting religion, as well as freedom of expression, individually or collectively; openly or secretly.

Toomaj Aryankia Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison

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News, Religious Minorities
Christian Azadegan Party, Karaj, Toomaj Aryankia, Toumaj Aryankia

Toomaj Aryankia, a Christian convert, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison and a 2-year ban on social activities by the Revolutionary Court in Karaj.

According to HRANA, citing Mohabat News, Mr. Aryankia was convicted by Branch 3 of the Revolutionary Court of Karaj, presided over by Judge Mostafa Narimani. He was charged with “propaganda against the Islamic Republic,” “collaboration with hostile governments,” and “membership in anti-regime groups.”

The report states that Aryankia’s request for retrial was rejected by the judge, prompting him to appeal the verdict. He is currently awaiting the appellate court’s decision.

The Christian convert was arrested on October 24, 2022, after his home was searched by security forces, who confiscated copies of the “Bible” and some personal items. He was released shortly after on a bail of 5 billion tomans.

Toomaj Aryankia, a member of the “Christian Azadegan Party (AMA)” and the “Pan-Iranist” group, has previously faced security-related confrontations due to his activities.

Several Followers of a Religious Movement Arrested in Torbat Heydariyeh

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News, Religious Minorities
Torbat Heydariyeh, Yamani

The Public Prosecutor of Torbat Heydariyeh, Razavi Khorasan province, announced the arrest of several followers of the “Yamani” movement in the city. Their residences and workplaces were searched, and some personal belongings were confiscated during the operation.

According to HRANA, quoting IRNA, the detainees were accused of promoting beliefs related to Mahdism through online sessions and recruiting individuals, particularly youth, to their cause.

Prosecutor Mohammad-Hossein Hassannejad did not specify the number or identities of the detainees but stated that the arrests were part of a coordinated operation by intelligence agencies.

He added that various items, including digital media production equipment, symbols of the movement, dozens of books, brochures, and flags, were confiscated during the searches.

Each year, individuals in Iran are arrested for claiming spiritual connections to the Mahdi, the Twelfth Imam of Shia Islam. Among these groups, the Yamani movement, led by Ahmad al-Hassan Yamani, stands out for its prominent activities and claims centered on Mahdism.

The Iranian government’s intelligence apparatus, particularly the Ministry of Intelligence, actively targets religious, spiritual, and ideological groups that fall outside its accepted ideological framework.

Three Baha’i Citizens Arrested in Shiraz

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News, Religious Minorities
Elham Haghighatjou, HRANA, Rozita Eslami, Shiraz, Vahid Masoumi

On November 10, Vahid Masoumi, Rozita Eslami, and Elham Haghighatjou, Baha’i citizens residing in Shiraz, were arrested by security forces and transferred to The Ministry of Intelligence’s detention facility, known as “House No 100.”

According to reports received by HRANA, Mr. Masoumi was arrested by Intelligence Ministry agents while leaving his home and taken to the facility. During the arrest, the agents searched his vehicle and residence, seizing several personal belongings, including electronic devices, books, and family photos.

Ms. Eslami was also arrested at her residence following a search of the premises.

As of the time of this report, no information is available regarding the charges against the three detainees.

Baha’is are subjected to violations of their religious rights, comprising 82% of reports on infringements against religious minorities, according to HRA’s 2023 annual report.

The Baha’i faith is not recognized as a legitimate religion by Iranian authorities, leading to systematic and longstanding violations of the rights of Baha’is in the country. This includes the denial of their fundamental right to practice their religion, which constitutes a clear breach of both Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The United Nations covenant holds that every person has the right to freedom of religion, freedom of converting religion, as well as freedom of expression, individually or collectively; openly or secretly.

Baha’is Vahid Sabet Arrested

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News, Religious Minorities
Baha'i citizen, Elham Haghighatjou, Rozita Eslami, Shiraz, Vahid Masoumi, Vahid Sabet

Yesterday, November 10, Vahid Sabet, a Baha’i citizen residing in Shiraz, was arrested by security forces in this city and transferred to an undisclosed location.

HRANA has confirmed the identity of the individual as “Vahid Sabet, a Baha’i citizen residing in Shiraz.”

As of the time of this report, no information is available about his whereabouts or the charges against him.

Additionally, three other Baha’i citizens in Shiraz — Rozita Eslami, Elham Haghighatjou, and Vahid Masoumi — were also arrested yesterday by security forces. Following their detention, they were transferred to The Ministry of Intelligence’s detention facility, known as “House No 100.”

Baha’is are subjected to violations of their religious rights, comprising 82% of reports on infringements against religious minorities, according to HRA’s 2023 annual report.

The Baha’i faith is not recognized as a legitimate religion by Iranian authorities, leading to systematic and longstanding violations of the rights of Baha’is in the country. This includes the denial of their fundamental right to practice their religion, which constitutes a clear breach of both Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The United Nations covenant holds that every person has the right to freedom of religion, freedom of converting religion, as well as freedom of expression, individually or collectively; openly or secretly.