Ten Baha'i Women Arrested In Central Iran

Agents of Iran’s ministry of intelligence have arrested 10 Baha'i women in the city of Esfahan (Isfahan) on Tuesday.

The detainees were apprehended at home following raids conducted by intelligence forces. They were transferred to an undisclosed location.

Additionally, during the searches of their residences, the agents confiscated personal belongings from the detainees and their families.

There have also been reports suggesting that intelligence agents have extended their operations by raiding the homes of numerous other Baha'i citizens in Esfahan, with the purpose of detaining them.

So far, no official information has been provided regarding the reasons behind the arrests or the specific charges brought against the arrested citizens.

The latest wave of arrests follows a backdrop of nationwide protests triggered by the murder of Mahsa Amini. The incident has ignited increased pressure on the Baha'i community from the regime of the Islamic Republic.

Members of the minority Baha'i faith face significant challenges in Iran, with the 1979 constitution officially recognizing only Islam, Christianity, Judaism, and Zoroastrianism. Baha'is are not afforded the same rights and protection.

Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has previously referred to the Baha'i faith as a cult and, in 2018, issued a religious fatwa prohibiting contact, including business dealings, with Baha'i followers.

Iran is home to an estimated 300,000 Baha'is, who have consistently reported systemic violations of their rights, including harassment, forced displacement from their homes and businesses, and discrimination in areas such as government employment and higher education.