Category: News

January Protests: Death Sentence of Sasan Azadvar Junaqani Upheld by Supreme Court

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Executions, News, Prisoners
Dastgerd Prison, HRANA, Isfahan, Mahmoud Kazemzadeh, Sasan Azadvar Junaqani

HRANA – The death sentence of Sasan Azadvar Junaqani, who was arrested during the January 2026 protests and is currently being held in one of the solitary confinement cells of Dastgerd Prison in Isfahan, has been upheld by the Supreme Court.

Based on information received by HRANA, his death sentence was upheld by the Supreme Court some time ago. Additionally, yesterday his family was summoned to the prison and met with him.
A family member, in an interview with an HRANA journalist, described the meeting as a “last visit,” adding: “Given that Azadvar is being held in solitary confinement, his family is deeply concerned about his condition.”

Sasan Azadvar Junaqani was arrested on January 1, 2026, during nationwide protests in Isfahan. He was later tried in March 2026 by Branch One of the Isfahan Revolutionary Court, presided over by Seyed Mahmoud Kazemzadeh, with advisor Mohammad Vakili.

On March 17, 2026, his verdict was issued. He was sentenced to death on charges of moharebeh, including:
(a) effectively inciting military forces to desert and refuse to carry out their duties during unrest with the intent to oppose the regime and overthrow the government;
(b) destruction of public property and disruption of public order.

He was also sentenced to 15 months in prison for “propaganda against the system,” 7 years in prison for “inciting or provoking people to engage in war and killing one another with the intent to disrupt national security,” including encouraging unrest in public and online spaces, 25 months in prison for insulting the Supreme Leader.

Sasan Azadvar Junaqani, 21, is a karate athlete and a resident of Isfahan.

It should be noted that following the onset of military conflict between the United States–Israel and Iran on February 28, 2026, the issuance and implementation of death sentences against prisoners facing political and security-related charges have intensified, driven by an expedited judicial process.

It should be noted that protests and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28, 2025, and within two days spread beyond markets and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests became one of the largest protest movements of recent years. Following the crackdown by security and law enforcement forces, thousands were killed or injured, and tens of thousands were arrested or summoned by security agencies. For more information, readers may refer to HRANA’s comprehensive report titled “Crimson Winter,” documenting the first fifty days following the outbreak of Iran’s nationwide protests.

Three Prisoners Executed in Tabriz Prison

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Executions, News
Akbar Molaei, Hanifeh Avandi, HRANA, Javad Abedi, Tabriz Prison

HRANA – The death sentences of three prisoners in Tabriz Prison, who had previously been convicted on charges related to drug offenses and murder, have been carried out.

According to a report by the Iran Human Rights Organization, on the morning of Sunday, April 19, 2026 , a woman named Hanifeh Avandi was executed in Tabriz Prison. She had previously been sentenced to death on a murder charge. Additionally, on the morning of Wednesday, April 22, 2026, two other prisoners, Akbar Molaei, 38, and Javad Abedi, 41, were executed in the same prison. They had been tried in a joint case on charges related to drug offenses.

The report further states that Hanifeh Avandi was forced into marriage at a young age under family pressure and, about five years ago, after a period of married life, killed her husband. A prison doctor, referring to her mental condition, stated that she had suffered from psychological issues during her imprisonment and had been under medical supervision. The doctor also emphasized that she had been in unfair circumstances and should not have been sentenced to death.

According to the report, Akbar Molaei and Javad Abedi were arrested about three years ago on charges of transporting and possessing four kilograms of narcotics (methamphetamine and heroin) and were sentenced to death by the Revolutionary Court of Tabriz. It has been reported that Akbar Molaei had a 7-year-old child.

According to HRA’s Annual Report, in 2025 at least 2,063 citizens, including 61 women and 2 juvenile offenders, were executed. Of these, the sentences of 11 individuals were carried out in public. During the same period, 172 other individuals were sentenced to death.

Legal Case Filed Against Lawyers Amir Raisian and Milad Panahipour Following Case Disclosure

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Freedom of Expression, News
Amir Raisian, Ehsan Hosseinipour, Milad Panahipour, Mostafa Nili

HRANA – Following the disclosure of information about the case of Ehsan Hosseinipour, a detainee from the January 2026 protests who has been sentenced to death, a judicial case has been opened against Amir Raisian and Milad Panahipour, both attorneys, in Branch 3 of the Tehran Security Prosecutor’s Office.

According to Etemad, a judicial case has been filed against the two lawyers. Based on the report, this action came after the two attorneys posted on their Instagram pages in February of 2026, stating that “Branch 26 of the Revolutionary Court had prevented the chosen lawyer from accessing the case of Ehsan Hosseinipour.”

Mahmoud Behzadi-Rad, Amir Raisian’s lawyer, announced: “In Branch 3 of the Security Prosecutor’s Office, Mr. Raisian has been charged with spreading falsehoods for informing the public about Ehsan Hosseinipour’s case, and with propaganda against the regime for signing a protest statement by 49 attorneys in February.” He added that the public disclosure was intended to prevent the violation of the rights of a defendant facing the death penalty, and that signing the statement was within professional duties and in defense of the right to a fair trial for detainees.

Mostafa Nili, the lawyer for Milad Panahipour, also stated that his client faces similar charges, including spreading falsehoods and propaganda against the state.

According to the report, Messrs. Raisian and Panahipour were released on bail after appearing at Branch 3 of the Security Prosecutor’s Office and being formally charged, pending further proceedings. Despite the case being opened, they have still been denied access to their client’s case file.

It is worth noting that some time ago, Ehsan Hosseinipour Hesarloo, along with several other citizens, including Matin Mohammadi, Erfan Amiri, and Maryam Hodavand, was sentenced to death by Iman Afshari, judge of Branch 26 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court. These sentences were issued on charges including “participation in the killing of two Basij members,” “intentional arson of a religious site,” “destruction of public property,” and “assembly and collusion against national security.”

Baha’i Couple Still Detained Without Charges in Shiraz

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Freedom of Expression, News
Behzad Yazdani, irgc, IRGC Intelligence, Romina Khazali, Shiraz

HRANA – Nearly one month after the arrest of Romina Khazali and her husband, Behzad Yazdani, this Baha’i couple residing in Shiraz remains in a state of uncertainty in Adel-Abad Prison in the city. Ms. Khazali, who suffers from multiple medical conditions, has been deprived of access to her necessary medications.

A source close to the couple’s family, confirming the news, told HRANA: “Before her arrest, Ms. Khazali had undergone stomach surgery and also suffered from conditions such as severe migraines, eye pressure, and back pain. In a recent brief call with her family, she said that her essential medications have run out. However, the medications sent by her family have not been accepted by prison authorities, which has heightened concerns about her health. Romina Khazali is only allowed a 30-second phone call with her family per week. She still does not have access to a phone card and has not been allowed to purchase items from the prison store.”

The source further added: “No interrogation session has been held for these individuals so far, and they remain unaware of the charges against them and the reasons for their arrest.”

Behzad Yazdani was arrested on the evening of March 28, 2026, and his wife, Romina Khazali, was arrested on March 29, 2026, by IRGC intelligence agents at their home in Shiraz.

Romina Khazali, a painter, and Behzad Yazdani, a translator and editor, are a Baha’i couple living in Shiraz and the parents of two teenage children, a daughter and a son.

Four Individuals Arrested by the IRGC on Security Charges in Kurdistan

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News, Other
HRANA, irgc, Kurdistan

HRANA – In an official statement, IRGC announced the arrest of four individuals on security-related charges in Kurdistan Province. According to the statement, weapons, ammunition, and Starlink satellite equipment were seized from those detained.

According to Asr Iran, in a statement, the IRGC’s information base said: “The Hamzeh Seyyed al-Shohada Headquarters of the IRGC Ground Forces arrested these individuals, who are members of opposition groups, on April 267, 2026.” It added that “anti-security items such as Kalashnikov rifles, handguns, ammunition, grenades, fake identification documents, and Starlink satellite equipment were discovered and confiscated from them.”

The statement further claimed, without providing additional details such as the identities of the individuals, that the detainees intended to carry out “terrorist” actions.

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January Protests: Report on the Latest Status of Ilya Ben-Rashid in Dastgerd Prison, Isfahan

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News, Prisoners
Dastgerd Prison, HRANA, Ilya Ben-Rashid, Isfahan

HRANA – Ilya Ben-Rashid, one of those arrested during the January protests in Shahin Shahr, has been in detention for nearly 100 days and is currently being held in Dastgerd Prison in Isfahan. Recently, a court session was held to address the charges against him, including moharebeh (enmity against God), at the Isfahan Revolutionary Court.

An informed source confirmed to HRANA: “In early April, a court session reviewing Ilya’s charges was held via video conference at Branch 5 of the Isfahan Revolutionary Court. He faces charges including moharebeh through alleged involvement in the destruction of public property, assembly and collusion to commit crimes against national security, and propaganda against the regime. During the session, he defended himself against these accusations.”

The source added: “Ilya has lost both of his parents and, prior to his arrest, lived with his grandparents. Given their advanced age, pursuing his legal case has become difficult. Additionally, Ilya has been denied access to a lawyer of his choice.”

Mr. Ben-Rashid was arrested on January 22, 2026, in connection with the nationwide protests in Shahin Shahr, Isfahan. He was later formally charged on February 21, at Branch 2 of the Public and Revolutionary Prosecutor’s Office in Shahin Shahr.

Ilya Ben-Rashid is 22 years old and a resident of Shahin Shahr, Isfahan.

Political Prisoner Vahid Chavaran at Risk of Vision Loss Amid Lack of Medical Treatment in Prison

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News, Prisoners
HRANA, Ilam, Vahid Chavaran, Zahedan Prison, وحید چاوران

HRANA – Vahid Chavaran, a political prisoner, has been serving his sentence in exile in Zahedan Prison since May of 2025. Despite suffering from physical health issues, he has been deprived of proper medical care and family visits.

An informed source close to Chavaran’s family confirmed the situation to HRANA, stating: “Vahid is suffering from an eye condition in Zahedan Prison and, due to the lack of specialized medical care, he faces a serious risk of losing his eyesight. Doctors have emphasized the need to transfer him to a hospital for specialized treatment, but prison authorities have so far prevented this.”

According to the same source, in addition to being denied medical services, Vahid Chavaran has also been deprived of the right to family visits.

In May of last year, Vahid Chavaran was transferred from Ilam Prison to Zahedan Prison to serve his 12-year sentence in exile.

He had previously been sentenced by Branch 1 of the Ilam Revolutionary Court to 12 years of imprisonment in exile on charges including participation in moharebeh (enmity against God) through the use of a light automatic firearm, disruption of public order, and insulting the Supreme Leader.

Vahid Chavaran was arrested on June 23, 2023, while attempting to leave the country. He was later transferred to The Ministry of Intelligence’s detention facility in Ilam, and after the interrogation process, he was eventually moved to Ilam Prison.

Student Fariborz Kohanzad Arrested

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Freedom of Expression, News, Students
Fariborz Kohanzad, HRANA, فریبرز کهن زاد

HRANA – Fariborz Kohanzad, an undergraduate electrical engineering student at Sharif University of Technology, has been arrested by security forces and taken to an undisclosed location.

According to HRANA News Agency, citing the United Students Telegram channel, Mr. Kohanzad was arrested by security forces and transferred to an unknown location. As of the time of this report, no information is available regarding the reasons for his arrest or the charges brought against him.

The report does not provide further details, including the date or location of his arrest.

Fariborz Kohanzad has previously been arrested and faced judicial actions due to his activities.

World Day for Safety and Health at Work: One-Year Statistical Report on Workplace Accidents in Iran

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Labor and Guilds, News, Publications
Borkhar, Fariman, HRANA, ILO, Nahroudbar, Razavi, World Day for Safety and Health

HRANA – On the occasion of World Day for Safety and Health at Work, the Human Rights Activists in Iran have examined the situation of workplace accidents caused by unsafe environments or working conditions over the period from 3 May 2025 to 27 April 2026.

According to data compiled by the organization’s statistics department, during this period, at least 586 workers lost their lives and at least 4,424 workers were injured due to workplace accidents resulting from unsafe environments or working conditions.

In 2003, the International Labour Organization (ILO), after extensive review, designated April 28 as World Day for Safety and Health at Work. The aim is to raise awareness about occupational safety and health, with an emphasis on preventing workplace accidents and diseases. In effect, it is an international campaign highlighting the importance of improving workplace safety and its impact on reducing work-related fatalities. Accordingly, governments are required to develop systematic policies and programs to monitor and enforce compliance with occupational safety and health regulations. It is also noteworthy that since 1996, labor unions worldwide have marked this day as a global day of remembrance for workers killed or injured on the job.

According to HRA’s Statistics And Documents Center, based on reports published over the past 12 months, the deaths of at least 586 workers due to workplace accidents linked to unsafe conditions have been reported by media outlets or relevant organizations.

In addition, 4,424 cases of work-related injuries have been reported and compiled by the organization’s statistics department.

Among the most tragic and notable incidents of the past year are: the deaths of 9 workers in a fire at an industrial workshop in Borkhar, located in Isfahan province; the poisoning of 17 workers by carbon monoxide gas in a cold storage facility in Fariman, Razavi Khorasan Province; the death and injury of 13 workers in a fire at the Kaveh Methanol Petrochemical plant; and the death and injury of 3 miners following a coal mine collapse in Nahroudbar, located in Mazandaran Province.

Based on the data collected by HRA’s Statistics And Documents Center, the causes of these incidents are distributed as follows: 20.28% construction-related accidents, 15.91% falls from height, 15.21% struck by hard objects, 11.89% fires, 7.69% mining incidents, 7.17% traffic accidents, 5.94% electrocutions, 3.32% explosions, 2.97% gas poisoning, 2.45% accidents in wells, 2.27% in factories, 2.10% poisoning, 1.05% drowning, 0.52% heatstroke, 0.52% smoke inhalation, 0.52% in petrochemical and refinery sectors, and 0.17% agricultural accidents.

Workplace Accident Categorization ChartWorkplace Accident Categorization Chart

Report on the Arrest of Keyvan Ahmadi by the IRGC Intelligence

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Freedom of Expression, News
HRANA, irgc, IRGC Intelligence, Keyvan Ahmadi, Shiraz

HRANA – Keyvan Ahmadi, a resident of Noorabad Mamasani, was arrested in late Match by agents of the IRGC Intelligence, and there is still no precise information available about his condition.

Based on information received by HRANA, Mr. Ahmadi was arrested in late March, 2026, by IRGC Intelligence agents in Shiraz. Despite nearly a month having passed since his arrest, there is still no clear information about his situation.
The reason for his arrest has been reported as accusations related to events that took place during the funeral of one of those killed in the January protests.

Keyvan Ahmadi had been working in a commercial unit in Noorabad Mamasani and was also active in the field of local music.