Story perspectives

16-Year-Old Protester Abused in Custody Amid Iran Crackdown

1/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

In Iran, Kurdistan Human Rights Network (KHRN) says a 16-year-old protester was sexually assaulted in custody.
Security forces used batons to abuse protesters during arrests.
Since late December, more than 20,000 protesters have been detained, with 3,766 confirmed dead.
The Abdorrahman Boroumand Center for Human Rights, a U.S.-based organization, expressed concern for detainees.
Soran Feyzizadeh died in custody from severe injuries, and his family faces obstacles retrieving his body.

History

Historical Context

The Iranian Revolution of 1979 overthrew Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, establishing the Islamic Republic under Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. This shift marked a significant increase in state-sponsored repression, with human rights abuses continuing to this day. Reports indicate that over 20,000 protesters have been detained recently, reflecting a troubling legacy of violence and oppression that began with the revolution's aftermath.

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Story summary

In Iran, Kurdistan Human Rights Network (KHRN) says a 16-year-old protester was sexually assaulted in custody.
Security forces used batons to abuse protesters during arrests.
Since late December, more than 20,000 protesters have been detained, with 3,766 confirmed dead.
The Abdorrahman Boroumand Center for Human Rights, a U.S.-based organization, expressed concern for detainees.
Soran Feyzizadeh died in custody from severe injuries, and his family faces obstacles retrieving his body.

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