Category: Freedom of Expression

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.

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.

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.

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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.

Day 39 of the Nationwide Protests: A Lawmaker’s Remarks on the Armed Suppression of Protests

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Freedom of Expression, News
Esmail Kowsari, Fajr Film Festival, HRANA, iran protests, irgc

HRANA – According to the latest verified cumulative data compiled by HRANA through the end of day thirty-nine of the protests, the total number of confirmed deaths has reached 6,883. Based on these figures, 6,445 individuals have been classified as protesters, while 164 victims fall under the category of children under the age of 18. In addition, 214 individuals affiliated with the government and 60 “civilian non-protesters” have been reported among the dead. A total of 11,280 cases remain under investigation.

During the same period, 11,021 civilian injuries were recorded. The total number of arrests reached 50,842, including 109 student arrests. HRANA has also documented 307 cases of forced confessions and 11,046 summonses. Furthermore, a total of 674 protest-related incidents were recorded across 210 cities in 31 provinces.

Today’s major developments related to the protests and their suppression can be grouped into four areas: the continued disruption of communications and a sustained, noticeable decline in internet traffic; controversies surrounding the Fajr Film Festival and public reactions from cultural figures; the ongoing wave of arrests and security pressure, alongside a statement by the Supreme Council of the Iranian Medical System on the safety of medical staff; and, at the security-political level, the publication of remarks by a lawmaker regarding a decision to pursue “armed intervention” by government forces.

Ongoing Disruptions in Communications and Internet Services; Sustained Decline in Traffic and Continued Widespread Outages

Reports from day thirty-nine indicate that internet and communications disruptions continue, with a significant number of users reporting chronic slow speeds, frequent disconnections, and difficulty accessing online services. At the same time, data published by Kentik shows that Iran’s internet traffic remains approximately 50 percent below pre-shutdown levels. This situation is consistent with field reports from users describing unstable connections and disruptions to public services.

In response to the persistence of these conditions, Behzad Akbari, a deputy at the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology, stated that the internet “has not yet returned to normal conditions” and described the ongoing disruptions as “beyond the authority of the Ministry of Communications.” He also rejected claims regarding a “change in internet architecture,” “tiered internet access,” and “whitelisting,” calling them “baseless.”

Overall, reports from day thirty-nine indicate that communications disruptions remain one of the most pressing daily concerns for citizens and businesses alike, while the return of the internet to a stable and reliable state continues to be surrounded by uncertainty.

Artists Distance Themselves from the Fajr Film Festival

On day thirty-nine, the Fajr Film Festival remained under the shadow of nationwide protests and social backlash, with a series of controversies turning the event into one of the most prominent cultural stories of the day.

One of the main controversies involved Ali Nassirian, who objected to the use of his image on the festival’s poster. He stated that his image had been used without his knowledge, adding that had he been informed in advance, he would have opposed it. Following this, Parviz Parastui shared a message attributed to Nassirian, in which he spoke of the “devastating blow” inflicted on the people and expressed solidarity with grieving families, a message that received widespread attention.

Protest reactions from other cultural figures also continued. Elnaz Shakerdoost, in a public statement, said that in a land that “smells of blood,” she would neither take part in celebrations nor perform roles.

Overall, reports from day thirty-nine indicate that beyond film screenings, the Fajr Film Festival has increasingly become a platform for public dissent and explicit political positioning, with its atmosphere widely described as tense and highly contentious.

Ongoing Arrests and Other Security Measures; From Scattered Detentions to Judicial Cases

HRANA reports indicate the continued arrests and security measures in various cities. In one report, the arrest of 17 citizens was documented across multiple locations, including Saeed Javanbakht, a student in Shiraz; and in Tehran, Tara Davoudi, Kimia Davoudi, and Saeed Piri. In Ilam Province, numerous individuals were listed among those arrested: Mohammad Zeynivand, Mehdi Kasaei, Meraj Shirkhani, Behzad Valibeigi, Mohammad-Hossein Baralk, Farzad Moradi, Behrouz Valibeigi, Mohammad-Amin Safari, Farshad Aieni, Hamid Larti, Sohrab Alidousti, Hamed Nazarian, and Nima Khorki.

In another report, HRANA documented the continued detention and lack of information regarding the whereabouts of three women in Tehran: Niousha Nakhai and Mona Nakhai, two sisters arrested on 15 January, and Mona Norouzi, who was arrested on 19 January.

HRANA has also reported that, as part of a mass case, 265 citizens were arrested in Bandar Anzali and Langarud. According to the report, 263 individuals were detained in Bandar Anzali and two individuals in Langarud.

In addition, HRANA reported the arrest of nine citizens in various cities: Fariborz Sadeghi, Moslem Seidi, Mehdi Ghaderi, Hamid Haj Jafar Kashani, Ahmadreza Bakhtar, Amir Mohammad Sarhadi, Pouria Mirzaei, Mohammad Mohammadian, and Ali Gilani, who were detained in cities including Kermanshah, Sanandaj, and Kerman.

Regarding the condition of detained protesters, Heshmatollah Tabarzadi, in a message from Isfahan Central Prison, warned of “horrifying” conditions faced by a number of detainees, stating that some are being held without access to medical treatment, despite suffering from gunshot wounds and shrapnel injuries.

Statement by the Supreme Council of the Iranian Medical System

Today, the Supreme Council of the Iranian Medical System issued a statement calling for the protection and safety of healthcare workers, warning against threats and pressures that could disrupt the delivery of medical treatment. The statement was released amid simultaneous reports of growing concern among medical staff and obstacles to providing care to those injured during the protests.

Remarks by Esmail Kowsari on a “Supreme National Security Council Decision” to Launch an Armed Crackdown

On day thirty-nine, Esmail Kowsari, Tehran’s representative in parliament, said in an interview with Rouydad24, referring to what he described as a “national revolution against the Islamic Republic,” that:

“Until Friday night, January 7, and even into Friday morning, the Law Enforcement Command did not use weapons. However, after the expansion of attacks, the Supreme National Security Council decided that the Law Enforcement Command, the Basij, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps would enter the scene in an armed manner.”

He added:
“This decision was made to neutralize the situation, and ultimately this mission was carried out successfully.”

Kowsari, a former commander of the IRGC, further stated:

“This was a coup-like movement intended to be brought to fruition, but by the grace of God and through the efforts of the Anonymous Soldiers of the Imam of the Age, the Law Enforcement Command, the Basij, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, this plot was completely neutralized.”

Updated Cumulative Statistics Through the End of Day Thirty-Nine of the Protests

• Total recorded protest-related incidents: 674

• Number of cities (no repetition): 210

• Number of provinces (no repetition): 31

• Civilian injuries: 11,021

• Total arrests: 50,842

• Student arrests: 109

• Forced confessions: 307

• Summonses: 11,046

• Total protesters killed: 6,445

▪️ Including children: 164
▪️ Military / government-affiliated personnel: 214
▪️ Civilian non-protesters: 60

• Total confirmed deaths: 6,883

• Cases under review: 11,280

Summary

Day thirty-nine was marked by the continued disruption of internet services and a sustained, significant decline in network traffic, while relevant authorities have not confirmed a return to normal internet conditions. At the same time, the Fajr Film Festival remained in the spotlight due to public reactions and explicit positions taken by cultural figures.

In the security sphere, HRANA reports indicate the continuation of both scattered and mass arrests, along with ongoing lack of information regarding the whereabouts of some detainees. A statement by the Supreme Council of the Iranian Medical System also emphasized the need to ensure the safety of healthcare workers.

Finally, remarks by Esmail Kowsari regarding a decision for “armed intervention” by the Law Enforcement Command, the Basij, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps emerged as one of the most significant statements of day thirty-nine, drawing widespread attention and reaction.

Nationwide January Protests: Arrest of 265 Individuals in Bandar Anzali and Langarud

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Freedom of Expression, News
Bandar-Anzali, Langarud

HRANA – At least 263 citizens in Bandar Anzali and two citizens in Langarud were arrested by security forces in connection with the January 2026 protests.

According to IRNA, the police commander of Bandar Anzali County announced the identification and arrest of 263 citizens in relation to the protests. Amir Vahabzadeh described those arrested as “individuals linked to unrest, leaders, and agents of destruction, incitement, and disorder.”

Based on this report, the police commander of Langarud County also announced the arrest of two citizens in connection with protests in the city. Arsalan Sobh Zahedi claimed that “two citizens, aged 45 and 40, were referred to judicial authorities for legal proceedings.”

This law enforcement official did not provide any information regarding the identities or places of detention of those arrested.

It should be noted that gatherings and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on 28 December. After two days, they expanded beyond marketplaces and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests became one of the most widespread demonstrations of recent years. For more information, readers 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 17 Citizens in Various Cities

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Freedom of Expression, News, Other
Abdanan, Narmak, Tehran

HRANA – In connection to the nationwide protests, security forces arrested 17 individuals in various cities.

According to HRANA, citing Kurdpa, one citizen was arrested in Tehran. His identity was reported as Saeed Piri, a resident of Abdanan County. Based on this report, Mr. Piri was arrested on January 7 in Tehran’s Narmak district by security forces without the presentation of a judicial warrant.

Kurdpa also reported in a separate account the arrest of 13 other citizens in various cities of Ilam Province. According to this report:

• Farzad Moradi on January 8 in Abdanan;

• Mehdi Kasaei on January 9 in Ilam;

• Meraj Shirkhani on January 9 in Ilam;

• Hamed Nazarian on January 10 in Ilam;

• Nima Khorki on January 10 in Ilam, all by security forces.

• Hamid Larti on January 15 in Ilam;

• Mohammad Zeynivand was arrested on January 16 in Darreh Shahr;

• Sohrab Alidousti on January 24 in Karzan;

• Mohammad-Hossein Baralk on January 25 in Lumar;

• Behrouz Valibeigi on January 30 in Lumar;

• Behzad Valibeigi on February 2 in Lumar;

• Mohammad-Amin Safari on February 2 in Abdanan;

• Farshad Aieni on February 3 in Dehloran;

Among these citizens, Mr. Khorki has been transferred to Ilam Prison, while no information is available regarding the place of detention of the other 12 individuals.

The Telegram channel United Students reported that Saeed Javanbakht, a student at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences originally from Yasuj, was arrested by security forces. His arrest occurred during the January protests due to providing assistance to injured individuals. The report did not specify the date of his arrest.

The Telegram channel Amirkabir Newsletter also reported the arrest of two sisters, Tara Davoudi and Kimia Davoudi, by security forces. According to the report, the two sisters were arrested on 14 January in Tehran and were subjected to beatings at the time of arrest. Since their detention, no information has been obtained regarding their whereabouts.

So far, no information has been made available regarding the charges brought against these 17 citizens.

Among them, Farshad Aieni had previously faced judicial action due to his activities.

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

Day 38 of Nationwide Protests: Continued Student Gatherings, Arrests, and Internet Disruptions

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Freedom of Expression, News
Ahmadreza Afshari-Nejad, Ali Ebrahimi, Amirhossein Mohammadi, HRANA, irgc, Mohammad Saedi-Nia, Sahand Taheri, Somayeh Heidari

HRANA – Based on the latest aggregated data up to the end of the 38th day since the start of the protests, the total number of deaths confirmed by HRANA has reached 6,872. According to these figures, 6,443 of those killed have been recorded as protesters, while 156 are listed under children under the age of 18. In addition, 214 members of government-affiliated forces and 59 individuals categorized as civilian non-protesters have been reported. 11,280 cases remain under investigation.

During the same period, the number of injured civilians reached 11,021, the total number of arrests rose to 50,553, student arrests stood at 109 cases, recorded instances of forced confessions totaled 307, and 11,046 summonses were issued. Moreover, a total of 673 protest-related incidents were documented across 210 cities in 31 provinces.

The major developments today surrounding the protests and their suppression include: the continuation of student gatherings; the persistence of arrests and security crackdowns in various cities; ongoing disruptions and instability in internet access and communications; and speeding up judicial cases against protesters. At the same time, newly imposed sanctions by Australia and statements by French officials further highlighted the international dimension of these developments.

Student Gatherings

Reports indicate the continued persistence of student gatherings and activism in recent days. In Tabriz, received videos show a group of medical sciences students holding a gathering on campus, where they commemorated those killed by displaying their photos and holding a memorial ceremony. At the same time, reports have also emerged of similar gatherings and events taking place in Mashhad and Shiraz.

Alongside these gatherings, security pressure on university environments has continued, and the arrest of students remains one of the main focal points of reports. According to the aggregated statistics on the 38th day, 109 cases of student arrests have been recorded. Four students arrested in Tabriz, Somayeh Heidari, Ali Ebrahimi, Sahand Taheri, and Amirhossein Mohammadi, have been reported as the latest examples of student arrests in Iran. Additionally, another report has been published regarding the arrest of Ahmadreza Afshari-Nejad, a final-semester student at the Tabriz Islamic Art University, who is reportedly being held in Tabriz Prison following his arrest.

Ongoing Problems in Communications and Internet Access

Despite official announcements claiming that internet access has been restored after weeks of shutdowns and widespread restrictions, field reports indicate that users’ access remains unstable and unpredictable. According to published accounts, filtered messaging apps become stuck in an “updating” state, VPNs function only for a few minutes before shutting down without warning, and even in the same fixed location and on a single mobile operator, users report differing experiences. The prevailing description is that the internet has neither returned to normal nor been completely cut off; rather, it exists in a “wearing” and unstable condition.

Technically, this situation is attributed to a shift in the filtering model, which relies less on nationwide shutdowns or direct IP blocking and more on identifying traffic patterns and protocol types. In this context, some reports suggest that the network is entering a “new architecture,” while Cloudflare’s analytical data also points to signs of structural changes in the filtering pattern.

Intensified Judicial Measures: Expedited Proceedings and Asset Seizures

Mohammad Jafar Montazeri, Head of the Supreme Court, announced that the cases of those arrested during the protests would be reviewed on an expedited basis due to their “sensitivity and national nature,” and adjudicated in strict accordance with the exact text of the law. Similar statements by other judicial officials, emphasizing accelerated proceedings and the issuance of harsh sentences, have, according to observers, heightened concerns about compliance with fair trial standards.

Separately, Ali-Asghar Jahangir, spokesperson for Iran’s Judiciary, referred to the case of Mohammad Saedi-Nia (a businessman and entrepreneur), stating that a detention order had been issued against him due to his “official support for protesters,” and that orders had also been given to seize his assets. He added that if the court determines that the actions attributed to him resulted in damages, compensation would be paid from his confiscated property. Taken together, these positions convey a clear message from judicial authorities of continued pursuit and strictness in protest-related cases.

In the education sector, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Education announced that all school students arrested during the protests have been released, while simultaneously noting that he does not have precise information on the exact number of these students. He also reported the deaths of a number of students and teachers, without providing specific figures.

International Pressure: Australian Sanctions and a Statement by a Senior French Official

On the international front, Australia announced the imposition of new targeted sanctions in response to widespread repression and the violent use of force against civilians. According to the published statement, 20 individuals have been placed on the sanctions list. Their names are: Mohammad Sadeghi, Mohammad Salah Jokar, Hassan Shahvarpour, Gholamhossein Mohammadi Asl, Rahim Jahanbakhsh, Abbasali Mohammadian, Ali Saeedi, Abdollah Araqi, Ali Fazeli, Ahmadreza Radan, Mohammadreza Fallahzadeh, Mohsen Chizari, Alireza Fadkar, Majid Mousavi, Seyed Aminollah Emami Tabatabaei, Ali-Asghar Norouzi, Hassan Sabourinejad, Javad Ghaffarhaddadi, Yahya Hosseini Panjaki, and Esmail Khatib. In addition, three entities have also been sanctioned: the Intelligence Organization of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the IRGC Cyber Defense Command, and Unit 840 of the IRGC Quds Force.

Meanwhile, Emmanuel Macron, President of France, referring to the “violent” suppression of protesters, told officials of the Islamic Republic that the people must be respected in light of recent events. At the same time, he emphasized the need to return to dialogue on issues related to nuclear matters, missiles, and regional stability.

Updated (Aggregated) Statistics up to the End of Day 38 Since the Start of the Protests

• Total recorded protest-related incidents: 673

• Number of cities (no duplicates): 210

• Number of provinces (no duplicates): 31

• Injured civilians: 11,021

• Total arrests: 50,553

• Student arrests: 109

• Forced confessions: 307

• Summonses: 11,046

• Total protesters killed: 6,443

▪️ Including children: 156
▪️ Military/government-affiliated forces: 214
▪️ Civilian non-protesters: 59

• Total deaths: 6,872

• Cases under investigation: 11,280

Summary

Day 38 passed amid the continuation of student gatherings and memorial ceremonies in several cities, while arrests, ranging from teenagers and students to ordinary citizens in various locations, were simultaneously reported. Alongside this, announcements of mass arrests in some areas presented a harsher picture of the security approach. In the communications sphere, an internet described as “connected but unreliable” became a persistent source of public frustration, with reports pointing to structural changes in the filtering model. Regarding judicial confrontations against protesters, the emphasis on expedited proceedings and asset seizure orders, alongside official narratives on protest-related cases, indicated an intensification of the judicial crackdown. At the same time, new sanctions imposed by Australia and statements by a senior French official further underscored the international dimension of pressure on the Iranian government.