Key facts
- Iran has intensified its crackdown on the Baha'i minority amid protests and war.
- Dozens of Baha'is have been imprisoned since January for their faith.
- Detained Baha'is have reportedly faced severe mistreatment, including electric shocks and mock hangings.
- Peyvand Naimi, a Baha'i, remains imprisoned despite a judge ordering his release, with his family reporting mistreatment and duress.
- Human rights groups accuse Iranian authorities of using the Baha'is as scapegoats for the country's crises.
Human rights groups report that Iran has intensified its persecution of the Baha'i minority, its largest non-Muslim religious group, amid ongoing nationwide anti-government protests and regional conflicts. Since January, dozens of Baha'is have been imprisoned solely due to their faith, with authorities allegedly desecrating religious items during home raids and subjecting detainees to severe mistreatment, including electric shocks and mock hangings. Some have reportedly made forced confessions to crimes punishable by death.
Peyvand Naimi, a Baha'i, has been imprisoned for over six months, accused of killing state security agents during protests. His family asserts he did not participate and that his confession, broadcast on state TV, was made under duress. They also claim authorities accused him of celebrating the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, a charge they deny, stating Naimi had no access to communications at the time. Despite a judge ordering Naimi's release on March 7, he remains in prison, with his family reporting that a prosecutor stated he would never be freed and that Naimi endured harsh treatment including denial of food.
The Baha'i faith, founded in Iran in the 19th century, has historically faced persecution, particularly during times of crisis. Experts suggest that the current intensified campaign against Baha'is serves as a scapegoat for the country's social, economic, and political issues, instilling fear and obedience among the broader population. The Iranian government has also used state television and social media to accuse followers of being spies and blaming them for economic woes. While many Baha'is practice their faith in secret, the public is encouraged to report suspected followers.