Semnan, August 21 – Anisa Fanaeian, a member of the Baha’i community and a resident of Semnan, has been apprehended by security forces and transported to an undisclosed location.

A source closely connected to her family has relayed to HRANA that on Monday, at noon, security forces executed a sudden raid on Fanaeian’s residence, culminating in her arrest. During the operation, a thorough search was conducted, leading to the confiscation of several items including her cell phone, laptop, and literature associated with the Baha’i faith.

At present, the motives that prompted Fanaeian’s detention remain obscure, and her present whereabouts are shrouded in uncertainty.

Fanaeian faced conviction and incarceration on prior occasions due to her religious convictions.

HRANA’s annual report has highlighted a concerning trend where, in 2022, 64.63% of reported human rights violations against religious minorities are directed toward the Baha’i community.

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.