Iranian Baluch Activist Killed Amid Ongoing Tensions
Naim Arbabi, an Iranian Chabahar resident and participant in the 2022 anti-government protests, was shot dead by four armed assailants on Thursday.
Naim Arbabi, an Iranian Chabahar resident and participant in the 2022 anti-government protests, was shot dead by four armed assailants on Thursday.
Arbabi, who had been arrested during September 2022, was subsequently granted temporary release from Zahedan's Central Prison upon posting a substantial bail.
"Four unidentified armed individuals riding two motorcycles attacked Naim in the Chabahar Free Trade Zone near the Lipar Hotel, where he was camping. He was shot directly in the head with four bullets, resulting in his death due to the injuries sustained," Baluch sources reported Saturday.
The circumstances surrounding his murder remain shrouded in mystery, with sources suggesting involvement by security forces due to his continued political activism on social media.
Arbabi's death underscores the ongoing struggles faced by Baluch Iranians, particularly in Sistan-Baluchestan Province, where minority groups have endured repercussions for their involvement in the 2022 protests. The province, predominantly Sunni Baluch, has witnessed a heavy-handed response from the regime, with dissenters facing harsh punishments, including execution.
The Baluch people have long been targets of persecution in Iran, with a significant number of executions occurring within their populations. Many Baluchis face execution on drug-related charges, yet activists argue that they are often denied fair trials. The regime's use of drug charges is seen as retaliation for persistent protests following Friday prayers. These communities, residing in one of Iran's most impoverished regions, struggle with high unemployment and inadequate infrastructure, leading some to resort to fuel, goods, and even drug smuggling as a means of survival.
In the final days of the current Iranian year 1402 (ending March 20), Iran International reached out to its audience to inquire about their hopes for the coming year. While dozens of responses varied widely, a prevailing sentiment was that the realization of these hopes hinges on changing the current regime.
Desire for Happiness and Peace One citizen expressed, "I wish for the Islamic Republic to vanish, allowing people to find peace and reclaim their lives."
Others echoed similar sentiments, wishing for "happiness and peace of mind" for Iranians, emphasizing the need for the regime's removal to achieve this.
Most responses received through social media carried pseudonyms, considering the risks involved for people inside the country from expressing their views.
Another individual remarked, "In recent years, we've endured more than our fair share of hardship. Iranians are good people who don't deserve this suffering. I hope for a future where we can lead peaceful and healthy lives after the fall of the mullahs, especially [Supreme Leader] Ali Khamenei."
Many messages highlighted the cruelty, oppression, theft, and tyranny perpetrated by the Islamic Republic. They labeled the regime as an occupier of Iran.
Honoring the Victims of Protests
Numerous Iranians referenced the killings of protesters by security forces in recent years, particularly during the nationwide uprising sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini in morality-police custody in September 2002. They believed that the pain and grief of bereaved families could only be somewhat alleviated by removing Iran’s government from "the hands of the mullahs, the IRGC forces, and the current leaders."
Observing an ancient Iranian tradition, many Iranians paid tribute to protest victims by visiting their graves on March 14, the last Thursday of the Iranian year.
Unity to Oust the Government
In recent days, Iran International received messages urging the public, especially opposition forces and groups, to unite against the Islamic Republic in the new year.
One citizen stated, "For the Woman, Life, Freedom Movement to succeed, we need targeted planning and protests. I hope for a united opposition and a strong coalition in the coming year."
Another noted, "I understand that my wish for the regime's collapse and the prosecution of its officials may not materialize for at least the next five years. The reason is that none of the world's politicians seem determined to effect regime change, as its survival, rather than its collapse, serves the interests of foreign countries."
Over the years, prominent dissidents and opposition figures, especially in recent months, have urged Western governments to heed the Iranian nation's call for regime change.
Many Iranians demand the collapse of the authoritarian government, followed by free elections with international observers and the establishment of a democratic, secular system. Additionally, many expressed a desire for the return of Iran’s exiled prince, Reza Pahlavi, to form a new government and restore order to the country.
Some wished for the return of Iranians forced to leave the country due to repression, who now yearn to return home.
Freedom, Peace, and Prosperity
Messages frequently emphasized the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, the formation of a government free from clerical interference, the prosecution of regime officials, and women's freedom from compulsory hijab. Other common wishes included a prosperous economy with affordable prices, peace and security in Iran and the Middle East, and freedom of expression.
Political prisoner Mahmoud Mehrabi, incarcerated in Esfahan’s Central Prison for over a year, expressed that true Norouz celebrations would only occur when genuine happiness pervades Iranian society.
Mehrabi emphasized that the transition from despair to joy can only be accomplished by the people themselves.
A middle-aged woman added, "I wish our children could experience happiness and freedom in the new year. May all our wishes be fulfilled."
