Iran Intensifies Persecution of Bahai Community Amid Protests

In recent weeks, Iran has intensified its persecution of the Bahai community, the country's largest non-Muslim religious minority, amidst widespread protests. The Bahai International Community (BIC) reported that the Iranian government has launched a campaign that includes arrests, forced confessions, and the dissemination of false accusations against Bahais through state television. This crackdown is seen as a strategic move to scapegoat the Bahai community during a period of national crisis.

Bahai activists say Iran intensifying persecution of community in wake of protests

The Bahai faith, which originated in Iran in the early 19th century, has faced systemic repression since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, with a significant escalation in recent years. Historically, Bahais have been accused of being agents of Israel, a claim that community representatives assert is unfounded. The BIC noted that the Iranian authorities have a pattern of targeting Bahais during times of social, economic, or political turmoil, further exacerbating their vulnerability.

Bahai activists say Iran intensifying persecution of community in wake of protests

While the exact number of Bahais arrested in the latest wave of repression remains unclear, the BIC has expressed alarm over the increasing detentions. Reports indicate that over 50,000 individuals have been arrested nationwide in the broader crackdown on dissent, which has also resulted in thousands of deaths. The Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) has documented over 300 instances of forced confessions related to the protests, highlighting the severe human rights violations occurring in Iran.

Bahai activists say Iran intensifying persecution of community in wake of protests

The BIC has condemned the Iranian government's actions, emphasizing that the forced confessions of arrested Bahais were obtained under pressure and coercion. Simin Fahandej, a BIC representative to the UN in Geneva, stated, “During every period of national crisis, whether social, economic, or political, the Iranian authorities consistently and systematically scapegoated the Bahais.” This sentiment underscores the community's ongoing struggle against state-sponsored persecution.

Bahai activists say Iran intensifying persecution of community in wake of protests

Human rights advocates and organizations have criticized the Iranian government's treatment of the Bahai community, calling for international attention and intervention. The BIC's statement reflects a broader concern among activists regarding the systematic targeting of minority groups in Iran, particularly during times of unrest.

Bahai activists say Iran intensifying persecution of community in wake of protests

While the BIC and other human rights organizations have reported an increase in arrests and persecution of Bahais, specific numbers remain elusive. The lack of transparency from the Iranian government complicates efforts to ascertain the full extent of the crackdown and the current status of the Bahai community within the country.

Bahai activists say Iran intensifying persecution of community in wake of protests

• “This has been accompanied by reports of an increase in the arrest and detention of Bahais across the country,” — Bahai International Community

Bahai activists say Iran intensifying persecution of community in wake of protests

• “a major escalation in the Iranian government’s campaign against the Bahai community,” — Bahai International Community

Bahai activists say Iran intensifying persecution of community in wake of protests

• “During every period of national crisis, whether social, economic, or political, the Iranian authorities consistently and systematically scapegoated the Bahais, said Simin Fahandej, BIC representative to the UN in Geneva.” — Simin Fahandej, BIC Representative to the UN in Geneva

Bahai activists say Iran intensifying persecution of community in wake of protests