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Day 42 of Protests: Wave of Arrests and Intensified Security Crackdowns

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Freedom of Expression, News
Bojnurd, HRANA, iran protests, nationwide protests, Sadegh Ashtari

HRANA – According to the latest aggregated data compiled by HRANA up to the end of the forty-second day since the beginning of the protests, a total of 675 protest-related incidents have been recorded across 210 cities in 31 provinces. Based on these figures, the total number of confirmed fatalities has been reported as 6,961, of whom 6,507 are registered as “protesters,” and 178 are among the fatalities categorized as children under the age of 18. Additionally, 214 members of government-affiliated forces and 62 individuals listed under the category of  non-protester civilians have been reported. The number of cases listed as “under investigation” has been announced as 11,630. During the same period, the number of injured civilians reached 11,021, total arrests amounted to 51,465, student arrests numbered 112, forced confessions totaled 311, and summonses reached 11,048.

On the forty-second day, repression continued in various forms: the continuation and expansion of security and judicial crackdowns against protesters and their supporters, ranging from political activists and journalists to medical staff, students, adolescents, and citizens in various cities. At the same time, reports emerged of raids on homes, seizure of communication devices, blocking of bank accounts, fabrication of cases and the filing of serious charges, as well as the killing of a wanted protester during an attempted arrest.

Chain arrests and charges against political activists and other citizens

As part of the ongoing arrests linked to the protests, Ghorban Behzadian-Nejad, a senior advisor to Mir-Hossein Mousavi and one of the signatories of the 17-person statement, was arrested in Tehran. Reports also recalled that Abdollah Momeni, Mehdi Mahmoudian, and Vida Rabbani, other signatories of the same statement, had previously been arrested.

At the same time, the East Azerbaijan General Directorate of Intelligence announced the arrest of 48 citizens in connection with the nationwide protests, stating that these arrests took place in cities including Tabriz, Sahand, Miyaneh, Basmenj, and Jolfa. Separately, official media also reported the arrest of more than 17 citizens linked to the protests in the provinces of Alborz, Kermanshah, and Kurdistan.

Reports also documented mass arrests in various other locations. One report on the arrest of three citizens stated that Mohammad Hadi Mahimeni was arrested in Gorgan, Omar Mohajer in Chabahar, and Raheleh Moini in Tehran. The same report noted that Raheleh Moini is being held in Qarchak Prison in Varamin, while Mohammad Hadi Mahimeni is detained in Gorgan Prison.

Another report announced the arrest of at least six citizens, including a minor: Mani Vafadar (a 17-year-old adolescent) in Bojnurd; Fardin Javanbakht and Hamed Karimkhah in Bushehr; and Jaber Taqvaei, Saeed Javanbakht, and Ali Taqvaei in Yasuj. According to the published information, Mani Vafadar, following his arrest in Bojnurd, is currently being held at the Juvenile Correction and Rehabilitation Center in that city. Further details regarding the timing of some arrests indicate that Fardin Javanbakht and Hamed Karimkhah were arrested on 16 Bahman in Bushehr, while Jaber Taqvaei, Saeed Javanbakht, and Ali Taqvaei were arrested on January 9 in Yasuj.

Meanwhile, reports also emerged of scattered arrests in several other cities. Among the names mentioned were Ali Shaeri, Mohammad Shakeri, and Ali Babari (in Esfarayen); Yaser Ghaffarnezhad (in Yasuj); Aref Khanzadeh (in Bojnord); Shahab Naderi (in Kermanshah); and Arshia Amin Javaheri (a student in Isfahan). The report also mentioned the arrests of Dana Rasoulpour and Hejar Bariki. Additional explanations stated that the identities and places of residence of some of these individuals, among them Ali Shaeri, Mohammad Shakeri, and Ali Babari (residents of Esfarayen), and Yaser Ghaffarnezhad (a resident of Yasuj), have been confirmed.

Additionally, official media reported on the holding of a court session for Mohammadreza Tabari, one of those arrested during the recent protests. One of the charges brought against him was cited as “enmity against God through armed action,” indicating that the process of case-building against some detainees is being steered toward more severe charges.

“Pressure on media and journalists”: home searches, phone confiscation, and bank account freezes

As the wave of security crackdowns on the media continues, reports indicate that security forces searched the home of Azadeh Mokhtari (a journalist), confiscated her mobile phone and identification documents, and barred her from using social media platforms.

In another report, Kianoush Darvishi (a journalist) stated that following a summons to the Cyber Police (FATA), his bank accounts were frozen. According to his account, the accounts were blocked without the case being referred to a court and solely based on a letter from the Cyber Police. The reason for his summons was reportedly attributed to publishing an “Instagram story of corpses.”

Reports also emerged of continued pressure on other media activists. Among them, it was noted that during a search of the home of Yalda Moaiery (a photographer), some of his electronic equipment was confiscated. The continued detention of several others in different cities was also reported, including Pedram Alamdari and Somayeh Heydari in Tabriz, Hassan Abbasi in Bandar Abbas, and Artin Ghazanfari in Mashhad.

Within the same context, the Iranian Writers’ Association expressed concern over the situation of two of its imprisoned members, Yousef Ansari and Ali Asadollahi, warning about their continued detention and the handling of their cases.

“Pressure on medical staff”: arrests of Medical Council members and crackdowns on protesting healthcare workers

Pressure and threats by security forces against medical staff continue. Mohammad Raiszadeh, head of the Iranian Medical Council Organization, announced that 33 members of the organization have been arrested in connection with the protests. He stated that so far 11 detained members in cities including Shiraz, Ardabil, Qazvin, Golestan Province, and Tehran have been released, but according to the latest figures, 23 individuals remain in detention.

Reports have also emerged regarding the arrest of healthcare workers. Among them is the arrest of Saber Dehghan (a neurosurgeon in Sirjan), who, according to reports, was arrested on January 2 while treating protest-injured patients at a hospital, following an altercation with security agents. At the time of this report, no clear information has been published regarding his condition or the charges against him.

Alongside these cases, numerous reports continue to highlight concerns among medical staff and accounts related to security pressures affecting the treatment of the injured, a trend that could further restrict safe access to medical services for those wounded during the protests.

“Seizure of assets and blocking of communications”: targeting well-known figures and symbolic repression

As part of the continued measures against prominent figures, reports indicate that the assets, bank accounts, and mobile phone line of Voria Ghafouri (former football player and coach of Esteghlal) have been seized and blocked. The same report also refers to the sealing of two cafés owned by him in Tehran, known as Cafe Voria, cafés that had been closed during the peak days of the protests (January 8 and 9). These actions were reported despite the fact that Ghafouri had previously expressed support for protesters on social media in response to the crackdowns.

“Death during arrest”: killing of Sadegh Ashtari and arrest of co-defendants

In another report, IRIB announced the killing of Sadegh Ashtari, one of the citizens wanted in connection with the Tehranpars protests, during his arrest following gunfire by security forces. It was also stated that 15 individuals described as his “co-defendants” were arrested. The release of a related video, without clear details regarding the circumstances of its recording, has been raised amid increasing reports of forced confessions and coerced videos in protest-related cases.

Market stagnation and the persistence of social anxiety

In the economic sphere as well, reports indicate that markets in many areas have not returned to normal conditions. A report on the Alaeddin and Chaharsoo shopping centers (among the main hubs for mobile phones and accessories) notes that despite shops being open, the market remains stagnant. Foot traffic is largely limited to shopkeepers, and the sound of customers is rarely heard in the corridors. The report also points to a heavy security presence, with agents visible around and inside the malls, and describes an intensified sense of anxiety within the business environment.

Updated (aggregated) statistics up to the end of Day 42 since the start of the protests

• Total recorded protest-related incidents: 675

• Number of cities (no repetition): 210

• Number of provinces (no repetition): 31

• Injured civilians: 11,021

• Total arrests: 51,465

• Student arrests: 112

• Forced confessions: 311

• Summonses: 11,048

• Total protesters killed: 6,507

▪️ Including children: 178
▪️ Military/government forces: 214
▪️ Non-civilian, non-protester: 62

• Total confirmed fatalities: 6,961

• Cases under investigation: 11,630

Summary

Day forty-two unfolded with systematic repression remaining the dominant trend, reflected in widespread and scattered arrests, intensified pressure on key social groups, including journalists, writers, medical staff, and students, and the expanded use of control measures such as home searches, confiscation of phones and identity documents, restrictions on online activity, bank account freezes, and case-building involving severe charges. Alongside these developments, the reported killing of a wanted protester during arrest and the persistence of a heavy security presence in public and economic spaces underscore a deepening crisis and the escalating human and social costs of the protests.

Day 41 of the Protests: New Domestic and International Reactions to the Protests and the Continued Arrests

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Freedom of Expression, News
HRANA, Molavi Abdolhamid, Niloufar Mir-Karimi, Sajjad Salarvand

HRANA – According to HRANA’s latest aggregated data, by the end of the forty-first day since the start of the protests, a total of 675 protest-related incidents have been recorded across 210 cities in 31 provinces. The total number of those killed has been reported as 6,955, of whom 6,505 have been classified as “protesters.” Additionally, 175 were children under the age of 18, 214 were government forces, and 61 were reported in the category of non-protester civilian. During the same period, 11,630 cases remain under review.

Regarding other indicators, the number of injured civilians stands at 11,021; total arrests have reached 51,251 cases; 111 student arrests have been recorded; 311 cases of forced confessions; and 11,048 summonses have been documented.

Reports from the forty-first day focus on two main developments: on the one hand, new domestic and international reactions to the crackdown, internet disruptions, and the condition of detainees; and on the other, the continued arrests, growing pressure to extract forced confessions, and the emergence of cases signaling an intensification of judicial and security measures.

Pressure to Halt the Crackdown

On the forty-first day, the German Teachers’ Union took a clear stance, calling for an end to the crackdown and the killing of protesters. The union also emphasized the necessity of keeping the internet accessible and preventing restrictions on communications, while demanding the release of detainees and an end to torture, enforced disappearances, and pressure on families. In this statement, the main focus was placed on the “right to protest,” “the safety of protesters,” and “the preservation of free access to information”, issues that in recent weeks have become central to international reactions toward Iran.

Molavi Abdolhamid, the spiritual leader for Iran’s Sunni Muslim population, also criticized the silence of some clerics and religious figures in the face of killings and repression. The core of this criticism was described as the distancing of religious institutions from public demands for accountability and the lack of response to concerns over those killed and detained. This position aligns with a series of recent reactions seeking to highlight the moral and social responsibility of elites and influential figures in addressing violence and repression.

Alongside these developments, the protest resignation of Niloufar Mir-Karimi, a Premier League futsal referee, drew widespread attention. In explaining her decision, she used explicitly protest-oriented language, underscoring the “unbearability of continuing life as normal” while citizens’ blood is being shed. Her resignation is widely viewed as part of a broader wave of reactions among figures in the sports and cultural spheres who, in recent days, through resignations, protest silence, or public statements, have conveyed that the protests are no longer confined to the streets but have extended into professional and social arenas as well.

Mass Arrests and Heavy Charges: The Continuation of Security and Judicial Crackdowns

On the forty-first day, HRANA’s aggregated data indicate the continued application of security measures on a broad scale. The arrest figure reaching 51,251 cases, alongside 11,048 summonses, shows that mechanisms of control and repression do not rely solely on street arrests but persist through summonses, threats, case fabrication, and other forms of pressure. The rise in documented cases of forced confessions to 311 further underscores that extracting “confessions” continues to be used as a key tool for building cases, waging psychological warfare, and providing media justification for repression.

Among notable cases, the arrest of Sajjad Salarvand, a Paralympic athlete, by the Intelligence Organization of the IRGC was reported. According to the information released, he was temporarily freed after posting a heavy bail set at 5 billion tomans. This case highlights, on the one hand, the ongoing arrest of well-known individuals with social standing, and on the other, the use of exorbitant bail amounts as a means of economic and psychological pressure on families.

Alongside the arrests, reports have also emerged of intensified pressure inside detention facilities. In particular, accounts from Gilan point to “pressure to confess against oneself and others,” a pattern that in many cases is pursued simultaneously with restricted access to legal counsel, cut-off communications, and the prolonged holding of detainees in a state of uncertainty. These measures, coupled with the rise in forced confessions, illustrate the approach of the regime’s security and judicial apparatus in managing the protests.

Updated (Aggregated) Statistics as of the End of Day Forty-One Since the Start of the Protests

• Total recorded protest-related incidents: 675

• Number of cities (no repetition): 210

• Number of provinces (no repetition): 31

• Injured civilians: 11,021

• Total arrests: 51,251

• Student arrests: 111

• Forced confessions: 311

• Summonses: 11,048

• Total protesters killed: 6,505

▪️ Including children: 175
▪️ Military/government forces: 214
▪️ Non-civilian, non-protester: 61

• Total deaths: 6,955

• Cases under review: 11,630

Summary

The forty-first day was marked by a convergence of overt reactions, ranging from demands issued by the German Teachers’ Union and criticisms voiced by Molavi Abdolhamid to the protest resignation of Niloufar Mir-Karimi, alongside the continued enforcement of security repression. On the ground, the scale of arrests, summonses, and forced confessions remains severe. At the judicial level, the increasing prominence of high-risk cases, including those in which the possibility of death sentences has been raised, signals that pressure has extended beyond street-level control and is increasingly aimed at entrenching judicial deterrence.

Naser Bakrzadeh Sentenced to Death for the Third Time

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Executions, News
HRANA, Naser Bekrzadeh, Urmia prison

HRANA – Naser Bakrzadeh, a political prisoner held in Urmia Prison, has been sentenced to death for the third time by Branch Two of the Revolutionary Court of Urmia. He had previously been sentenced to death twice by the Revolutionary Court of Urmia, but on both occasions the Supreme Court overturned the verdicts and referred the case back for retrial.

Based on the ruling issued by Branch Two of the Revolutionary Court of Urmia, presided over by Judge Shahini, and communicated to Mr. Bakarzadeh’s lawyer on Tuesday, Bahman 14, he was sentenced to death on charges of espionage for Israel.

Mr. Bakarzadeh was first sentenced to death in November 2024 by Branch Three of the Revolutionary Court of Urmia on charges of “espionage for Israel and cooperation with the Mossad intelligence service.” This verdict was overturned by the Supreme Court in April of 2025, and the case was referred to a parallel branch for retrial.

He was sentenced to death for a second time in September, 2025, by Branch Two of the Revolutionary Court of Urmia on charges of “espionage for Israel.” This ruling was also overturned by the Supreme Court in October 2025.

Naser Bakrzadeh, about 26 years old, was arrested in January 2024. He was held for a period in the IRGC’s intelligence detention facility in Urmia, where he was subjected to interrogation. According to a source close to his family, this process involved violations of his basic rights, including being denied contact and visits with his family.

Report on the Arrest of Four Citizens in Various Cities

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Freedom of Expression, News
Ali Heydari, Arshia Issazadeh, Bojnurd, Javad Mianabadi, Sajjad Salarvand

HRANA – During the recent protests, Ali Heydari in Mashhad, Javad Mian-Abadi in Sabzevar, Sajjad Salarvand in Tehran, and Arshia Issazadeh in Bojnurd were arrested by security forces. Among them, Sajjad Salarvand has been released from Greater Tehran Prison after posting bail.

Based on information received by HRANA, Mr. Heydari, 20 years old, was arrested on January 8 in Mashhad; Javad Mian-Abadi, born in 1990, was arrested on January 9 in Sabzevar; and Sajjad Salarvand, a para-athlete and resident of Tehran, was arrested by security forces. Among these individuals, Mr. Salarvand has been released from Greater Tehran Prison after posting bail.

Separately, Kurdpa News Agency reported the arrest of an individual named Arshia Issazadeh in Bojnurd. According to this report, he was arrested on Dey 19 without the presentation of a judicial warrant.

As of the time of this report, no information has been obtained regarding the charges brought against the detained citizens or their places of detention.

It is worth noting that gatherings and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28, and after two days expanded beyond bazaars and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests turned into one of the most widespread protests of recent years. Following the crackdown on the protests by law enforcement and security forces, thousands have been killed or injured, and tens of thousands have been arrested or summoned by security institutions. For more information, you can refer to HRANA’s detailed report on the fortieth day since the start of the protests, which was published last night.

Report on the Arrest of Six Citizens in Various Cities

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Freedom of Expression, News
Aida Koushki, Ali Khani, Bahnam Golshadnejad, Behrouz Bassereh, Soroush Zahhakan, Vahid Ghanbari

HRANA – Bahnam Golshadnejad, Vahid Ghanbari, Behrouz Bassereh, Aida Koushki, Ali Khani, and Soroush Zahhakan, a student, were arrested by security forces in the cities of Ilam, Kermanshah, Eslamabad-e Gharb, Tabriz, and Bojnurd.

According to Kurdpa, five citizens were arrested in the cities of Ilam, Kermanshah, Eslamabad-e Gharb, and Bojnurd. The identities of these individuals have been reported as Behrouz Bassereh, 37, from Ilam; Aida Koushki, a student and teacher from Eslamabad-e Gharb; Ali Khani from Bojnord; and Vahid Ghanbari and Bahnam Golshadnejad, both from Kermanshah.

According to the report, Vahid Ghanbari was arrested on January 28 in Kermanshah; Behrouz Bassereh on January 11 in Ilam; Aida Koushki on February 1 in Eslamabad-e Gharb; Bahnam Golshadnejad on January 10 in Kermanshah; and Ali Khani on January 8 in Bojnurd. All were arrested by security forces without the presentation of a judicial warrant.

Among these citizens, Vahid Ghanbari has been transferred to one of the security detention facilities in Kermanshah. No information is available regarding the place of detention of the other four individuals.

During their detention, these citizens have been denied access to legal counsel and family visits, raising concerns among their relatives.

In addition, the Telegram channel “United Students” reported the arrest of Soroush Zahhakan, a student at the University of Tabriz. According to this report, he was arrested by security forces on Dey 28 in Tabriz and transferred to an unknown location. Since his arrest, no information has been obtained regarding his current condition, which has caused concern for his family.

As of now, no information is available regarding the charges brought against these six citizens.

It is worth noting that gatherings and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28, and after two days expanded beyond bazaars and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests turned into one of the most widespread protests of recent years. Following the crackdown on the protests by law enforcement and security forces, thousands have been killed or injured, and tens of thousands have been arrested or summoned by security institutions. For more information, you can refer to HRANA’s detailed report on the fortieth day since the start of the protests, which was published last night.

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The Nationwide Protests: Report on the Arrest of Three Citizens in Isfahan and Rudsar

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Freedom of Expression, News
Mohammadrasoul Babasafari, Setareh Shariati, Zahra Hedayati

HRANA – During the nationwide protests, Zahra (Sara) Hedayati and Mohammadrasoul Babasafari, a dentist, in Isfahan, and Setareh Shariati in Rudsar were arrested by security forces. At present, Ms. Shariati is being held in Lakan Prison in Rasht, while Ms. Hedayati and Mr. Babasafari are being held in Dowlatabad Prison and Dastgerd Prison in Isfahan, respectively.

HRANA has verified the identities of these citizens as Zahra (Sara) Hedayati and Mohammadrasoul Babasafari, both 36 years old, residents of Isfahan, with Mr. Babasafari being a dentist, and Setareh Shariati, 26 years old, a resident of Rudsar.

A knowledgeable source, confirming the news to HRANA, stated: “Ms. Hedayati and Mr. Babasafari were arrested by security forces on Towhid Street in the city of Isfahan. Zahra was then transferred to Dowlatabad Prison, and Mohammadrasoul to Dastgerd Prison in Isfahan.”

According to information received by HRANA, Setareh Shariati was also arrested by security forces during the protests in the city of Rudsar. She is currently being held in Lakan Prison in Rasht.

As of the time of this report, no information has been obtained regarding the charges brought against these citizens.

It is worth noting that gatherings and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28, and after two days expanded beyond bazaars and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests turned into one of the most widespread protests of recent years. Following the crackdown on the protests by law enforcement and security forces, thousands have been killed or injured, and tens of thousands have been arrested or summoned by security institutions. For more information, you can refer to HRANA’s detailed report on the fortieth day since the start of the protests, which was published last night.

Panel Discussion | Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps: Human Rights Violations and International Crimes in Iran and Beyond

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News, Other
Amin Ghazaei, HRANA, irgc, Skylar Thompson, UpRights, Valérie Gabard

HRANA– This evening, Thursday, the Asser Institute hosted a well-attended panel discussion examining the role of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in widespread human rights violations and alleged international crimes committed in Iran and beyond. The panel, co-organised by the IHCL Platform, brought together legal scholars, human rights practitioners, journalists, and members of the Iranian diaspora for an in-depth discussion on institutional violence, documentation, and pathways to accountability in connection with HRA’s Pasdaran Documentation Project (PDP).The event was moderated by Gabriele Chlevickaite, senior researcher in international criminal law at the Asser Institute.

Importantly, the discussion unfolded against the backdrop of the nationwide protests that erupted in Iran in late 2025.

These remarks were made in the context of the opening of HRA’s European office, Stichting Human Rights Activists in Iran, officially registered in the Netherlands, marking an important step in strengthening the organization’s legal and operational presence in Europe.

Amin Ghazaei, Iranian author and human rights activist. provided a detailed overview of the founding of the IRGC in the aftermath of the 1979 revolution.

Ghazaei highlighted how ideology functions not merely as rhetoric within the IRGC, but as an operational framework that legitimizes violence against perceived internal and external enemies. This ideology, he noted, has played a crucial role in normalizing repression, particularly during periods of mass protest. He also outlined the IRGC’s complex internal structure, including its ground forces, intelligence units, Basij militia, and extraterritorial operations, stressing that this institutional complexity must be understood in order to assess responsibility for abuses. This paved the way for the importance of HRA’s work on the PDP database.

The discussion then turned to an intervention by Skylar Thompson, Deputy Director of Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRA). Thompson presented the Pasdaran Documentation Project (PDP), a long-term initiative developed by HRA to systematically map the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as an institution from its inception to the present day. She explained that PDP links documented incidents of serious human rights violations and international crimes to specific IRGC units and individuals. The database currently includes profiles of more than 4,800 IRGC members and over 84,700 units, and is now expanding its analysis to examine how these units are connected to ongoing events.

According to Thompson, PDP serves several key purposes: supporting legal accountability efforts, assisting national investigative authorities and researchers, and preserving a public historical record in a context where official narratives often seek to erase or distort evidence of abuse. She stressed that documentation itself is the foundation of accountability, explaining that without rigorous, systematic documentation, accountability is impossible. As Thompson noted, “Accountability cannot exist without documentation. At the core of PDP is the act of recording, preserving, and contextualizing evidence, both as a form of justice in its own right and as the essential basis for any future accountability efforts, while keeping victims at the center to guide our work.”

Valérie Gabard, Co-Director of UpRights, focused on the implications of such documentation and the avenues available for accountability beyond Iran’s borders. Drawing on the Practitioner’s Guide to Addressing Alleged Serious Human Rights Violations and International Crimes Committed by the IRGC in Iran and Abroad, published jointly by HRA and UpRights in April 2025, Gabard outlined practical strategies for pursuing justice.

She discussed the potential use of universal jurisdiction in national courts and targeted sanctions regimes. While acknowledging significant procedural obstacles, Gabard emphasized that existing legal frameworks already offer meaningful opportunities for action, provided that evidence is collected, structured, and preserved in a manner that meets prosecutorial standards. She concluded by underscoring the critical importance of high-quality documentation for future accountability efforts, including maintaining clear chains of custody and adhering to ethical documentation practices, such as protecting victims’ identities and refraining from sharing their names.

Gabard acknowledged that there is no easy or linear pathway forward, but emphasized that viable legal and accountability options do exist.

The panel concluded with an extended question-and-answer session, during which audience members raised questions about challenges related to documentation, evidence collection, and universal jurisdiction. Several questions focused on the role of European states, both as potential venues for universal jurisdiction cases and as political actors shaping accountability through sanctions and diplomatic pressure.

 

Day 40 of the Protests: Domestic Reactions, Continued Arrests, and Forced Confessions

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Freedom of Expression, News
Ayatollah Bayat Zanjani, Fajr Film Festival, HRANA, Mohammad Baghjari, Sattar Goharifar

HRANA – Based on HRANA’s aggregated data up to the end of the fortieth day since the start of the protests, the total number of recorded protest-related incidents has reached 675 locations across 210 cities in 31 provinces. During this same period, the number of confirmed deaths has been reported as 6,941, including 6,495 protesters, 171 children, 214 military–government forces, and 61 civilian non-protesters. In addition, 11,630 cases remain under review. The number of seriously injured civilians stands at 11,021, the total number of arrests at 50,921, student arrests at 109 cases, forced confessions at 307 cases, and summonses at 11,047 cases.

On the fortieth day since the start of the protests, on the one hand, we witnessed domestic reactions, particularly from professional guilds and cultural figures, to the bloody crackdown, and on the other hand, the continuation of arrests, summonses, and security pressures in various cities. Reports also indicate an increase in forced confessions and threats against detainees.

Domestic Responses to the Protests: Condemnation Statements and Public Figures’ Withdrawals as an Act of Protest

In the days leading up to the fortieth day, a significant portion of domestic reactions took the form of statements, formal appeals, and professional and trade-based positions.

One of the most notable domestic stances was announced by Ayatollah Bayat Zanjani, who, in a symbolic and protest-oriented act, declared that he had refrained from holding Mid-Sha’ban celebrations and ceremonies in solidarity with the families of those killed during the January protests. Due to his religious and social standing and the timing amid rising fatalities, this position received wide public attention and was interpreted in the public sphere as a clear message opposing the crackdown.

In the cultural sphere, withdrawals and refusals to participate in the Fajr Film Festival continued. In the latest instance, it was reported that Amir Jadidi had also declined to attend the festival. The continuation of this trend is seen as a sign of a widening rift between segments of the artistic community and official institutions, a divide that had become increasingly visible through multiple waves of withdrawals in recent days and that persisted on the fortieth day.

Forty-eight attorneys also issued a statement condemning the crackdown. The statement emphasized issues such as detainees being denied access to independent legal counsel, expedited judicial procedures, restrictions on contact and visits, pressure to extract confessions, and the broadcast of televised confessions, warning of systematic violations of due process rights. At the same time, a lawyer publicly criticized bar associations, stating that these bodies had failed to respond effectively or pursue the situation of detained lawyers. In this context, the arrest of at least 22 lawyers in connection with the protests was highlighted. This criticism focused specifically on the “distance of professional institutions from the crisis” and their “lack of active defense of members,” once again bringing issues of lawyers’ job security and the right to independent defense to the forefront.

Additionally, in East Azerbaijan Province, more than 40 lawyers affiliated with the Bar Association had been summoned by the Judiciary’s Intelligence Protection Office, and cases had been opened against some of them. These actions were reportedly linked to their support for protesters’ rights, under charges such as “propaganda against the system” and “spreading false information.” Observers view these summonses as part of an organized effort to restrict legal defense networks in protest-related cases.

At the political level, a member of the parliament’s presiding board called for the inclusion of “education on peaceful protest” in the national education system. This proposal took on a dual significance amid the ongoing crackdown: on the one hand, it implicitly acknowledged the continued reality of protests, and on the other, it represented an attempt to offer a more “controlled” and lower-cost approach to dealing with social unrest.

In this context, the Coordination Council of Teachers’ Trade Associations announced that the number of students killed in the suppression of the protests has exceeded 160, a figure that, alongside the publication of name lists, illustrates the heavy human toll of the crackdown. In contrast, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Education stated that all detained students had been released. Given the reported death toll and repeated accounts of arrests, this claim was met with public skepticism and, by some observers, interpreted as an effort to manage public opinion.

A group of sociologists inside the country also commented on the violence and repression, emphasizing that preserving human life takes precedence over any political expediency. These positions, alongside professional statements, indicate that the protests are no longer merely a street phenomenon but have become a broad and pervasive public issue spanning education, culture, law, and social analysis.

Detentions, Mass Summonses and Forced Confessions

On the fortieth day, reports indicate that arrests and security measures remained one of the main axes of developments, both in the form of individual arrests with named detainees and in the form of widespread arrests and summonses.

According to HRANA’s aggregated data, the total number of arrests has reached 50,921, alongside 11,047 recorded summonses. In the academic sphere, the number of arrested students has been reported as 109, indicating that universities continue to be among the sensitive focal points for security crackdowns. The number of forced confessions has also reached 307 cases.

HRANA’s reports from the fortieth day refer to the arrest of seven citizens in connection with the protests, among them a 16-year-old minor. It was also reported that two minors were arrested in Chabahar, one of whom had been injured in the leg by gunfire from law enforcement–security forces prior to arrest. In other cases, the name of Mohammad Baghjari was reported as a detainee in Sabzevar; according to reports, he was beaten at his workplace. The situation of Sattar Goharifar (a student) in Greater Tehran Prison was also highlighted as an example of uncertainty and limbo in detention. Another report referred to the arrest of three citizens in Isfahan and Rudsar, noting that they are being held in Doulataabad/Dastgerd Prison in Isfahan and Lakan Prison in Rasht.

Alongside these individual cases, reports of broader arrest campaigns were also published, including references to the detention of at least 57 citizens in North Khorasan and Astaneh Ashrafieh in connection with the protests. Other media reports have spoken of a much larger scale of arrests, including estimates of tens of thousands detained and even summonses/arrests approaching 100,000 people or more in recent weeks. These figures are considered difficult to verify precisely due to deliberate ambiguity in case registration, lack of responses from responsible institutions, and the disorientation imposed on families.

Meanwhile, reports concerning the broadcast of forced confessions and concerns about their consequences have increased. Families and activists say these confessions are extracted under pressure and torture and could pave the way for heavy sentences, including the death penalty. At the same time, multiple warnings have been issued about the risk of torture and forced confessions in conditions where the high number of arrests and summonses has severely strained families’ ability to pursue legal remedies and access information.

On the fortieth day, signs of crackdowns were also observed in professional and medical sectors. It was reported that students at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences continued their multi-day sit-in protest against the crackdown and the situation facing medical staff.

HRANA Aggregated Statistics as of the End of the Fortieth Day

Protest-Related Incidents

• Total number of locations across cities: 675

• Number of cities (without repetition): 210

• Number of provinces (without repetition): 31

Fatalities

• Total protesters killed: 6,495

• Including children: 171

• Military/government forces: 214

• Non-civilian, non-protesters: 61

• Total confirmed deaths: 6,941

• Cases under review: 11,630

Other Statistics

• Injured civilians: 11,021

• Total arrests: 50,921

• Student arrests: 109

• Forced confessions: 307

• Summonses: 11,047

Summary

On the fortieth day, we witnessed an increase in cumulative statistics related to the protests. Notable developments included positions taken by religious, legal, and cultural figures, as well as the continued arrests, summonses, and forced confessions.

January Protests: Seven Citizens Arrested, Including a 16-Year-Old

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Children, Freedom of Expression, News
Fariborz Heidari, Hossein Mazinani, Kasra Ghaderbeigi, Mehdi Mazinani

HRANA – Kasra Ghaderbeigi, a 16-year-old minor from the city of Asmanabad; Mehdi Barzouei in Bojnurd; Hossein Mazinani and Mehdi Mazinani, two brothers residing in Tehran; and three environmental activists named Sadegh Parviz-Zadeh, Fariborz Heidari, and Hossein Ansarian have been arrested by security agents in connection with the nationwide protests.

According to Kurdpa, on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, Kasra Ghaderbeigi, a 16-year-old from Asmanabad in Ilam Province, was arrested by security forces and transferred to an undisclosed location.

His arrest was carried out without the presentation of a judicial warrant, and to date, no information has been obtained regarding the reason for his arrest or the charges brought against him.

Separately, according to Kolbar News, Mehdi Barzouei was arrested by security forces at his private residence in Bojnurd on January 10, 2026, without the presentation of a judicial warrant, and transferred to an undisclosed location. After undergoing interrogation, he was transferred in recent days to Bojnurd Prison. This wrestler has been denied access to a lawyer and family visits, and no official information has been released regarding the charges against him.

In a report by Ensaf News, it was stated that Sadegh Parviz-Zadeh, Fariborz Heidari, and Hossein Ansarian—three environmental activists who had previously been arrested in connection with the nationwide protests—remain in detention.

In recent days, the arrest of a number of environmental activists has been reported. The head of Iran’s Department of Environment has also, in correspondence with the head of the judiciary, called for the release of activists detained during the recent protests.

Additionally, according to the news channel of Khajeh Nasir University of Technology, Hossein Mazinani, a graduate in computer engineering from Khajeh Nasir University of Technology and in music from the University of Art in Tehran, along with his brother Mehdi Mazinani, a graduate in computer engineering from Sharif University of Technology, were arrested on January 10, 2026. As of the time of this report, no further details have been published regarding their place of detention or the charges against them.

It should be noted that gatherings and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28, 2025. After two days, they spread beyond bazaars and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests became one of the most widespread in recent years. For more information, you can refer to HRANA’s detailed report published last night on the thirty-eighth day since the start of the protests.

Report on the Arrest of Nine Citizens in Connection with the January Protests

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Freedom of Expression, News
Ahmadreza Bakhtar, Ali Gilani, Amir Mohammad Sarhadi, Fariborz Sadeghi, Hamid Haj-Jafar Kashani, Ilam, irgc, Mohammad Mohammadian, Pouria Mirzaei, Sanandaj

HRANA – In connection with the nationwide protests, nine individuals were arrested by security forces in the cities of Ilam, Kermanshah, Sanandaj, Tehran, and Kerman.

Based on information received by HRANA, Amir Mohammad Sarhadi, Pouria Mirzaei, Mohammad Mohammadian, and Ali Gilani were arrested during the nationwide protests in Kerman by Intelligence Organization of the IRGC agents in this city.

In this regard, on January 14, 2026, Mehr News Agency published a video of the forced confessions of these citizens under the title “Agents Behind the Arson of the Kosar Square Procession.” In this video, which it is unclear under what conditions it was recorded, the citizens express remorse.

A source close to the families of these citizens, while confirming the news, told HRANA: “So far, no information has been obtained about their place of detention. The lack of information about the fate of these citizens has increased the concerns of their families and relatives.”

Additionally, Fariborz Sadeghi, a resident of Ilam, was also arrested by security forces in this city in late January 2026. So far, no information has been obtained about his place of detention.

On the other hand, Hamid Haj Jafar Kashani and Ahmadreza Bakhtar were arrested by security forces in Tehran and are currently being held in Greater Tehran Prison.

According to available information, Bakhtar, 18 years old, from Shirvan in Ilam Province, and Haj Jafar Kashani were arrested by security forces in Tehran during the early days of the protests.

Kurdpa News Agency also reported the arrest of two citizens in Sanandaj and Kermanshah.

The identities of these citizens were reported as Mehdi Ghaderi, 32 years old, son of Ali, married, father of two children, and a resident of Sanandaj; and Moslem Seydi, 39 years old, from and residing in Kermanshah.

According to this report, Mr. Ghaderi was arrested on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, by security forces in Sanandaj, and Mr. Seydi was arrested on January 9, 2026, inside a doctor’s office on Kashani Street in Kermanshah. Since their arrest, no information has been obtained regarding their place of detention.

As of the time of this report, no information has been obtained regarding the charges brought against these citizens.

It should be noted that gatherings and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28, 2025. After two days, they spread beyond bazaars and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests became one of the most widespread in recent years. For more information, you can refer to HRANA’s detailed report published last night on the thirty-eighth day since the start of the protests.