Young Baháʼí Imprisoned in Iran Faces Torture and Mock Executions
Peyvand Naimi, a 28-year-traditional member of the Baháʼí faith, is facing severe danger in Iranian custody, enduring torture, mock executions, and interrogation, according to reports from the Baháʼí International Community and family members. His case has drawn concern from international rights groups and calls for intervention from the international community.
Arrest and Initial Detention
Peyvand Naimi was arrested on January 8, 2026, during a crackdown following protests in Iran. He was taken to a detention center run by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and accused of “false charges” related to instigating unrest, according to his relatives. RTE News reports that Sama Sabet, Naimi’s cousin and a member of the Baháʼí community in Ireland, has voiced concerns about his treatment.
Torture and Forced Confession
Following weeks of alleged torture, Naimi was forced to confess to “a number of baseless charges” on state television on February 1, 2026. The Baháʼí International Community states that mock executions, a form of severe mental torture banned under international law, have been used against him.
Escalating Accusations
Despite being in detention at the time of the alleged events, Naimi was accused at the conclude of February of involvement in the deaths of three Basij security agents during the January protests. He was also falsely accused of celebrating the death of Iran’s former supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, an accusation his family says he could not have known about due to his lack of access to communication while imprisoned.
International Condemnation and Calls for Action
The Baháʼí International Community has stated that Naimi is in “serious danger.” Simin Fahandej, the UN’s Bahá’í International Community Representative, emphasized the lack of evidence supporting the accusations, stating that the Iranian government resorts to torture to extract false confessions. She called on the international community to demand an end to the targeting of Baháʼís. RTE News also notes that Ireland has consistently condemned the persecution of Baháʼís in Iran, expressing concern over the detention and oppression of Baháʼí women at the 58th Session of the UN Human Rights Council last year.
Systematic Persecution of Baháʼís in Iran
The persecution of Baháʼís in Iran has been documented for decades, including denial of civil rights, imprisonment, torture, and destruction of property. The Baháʼí International Community notes that since 1979, the Iranian government has consistently scapegoated the Baháʼí community during national crises through disinformation and hate campaigns.
Ongoing Concerns
As of March 25, 2026, Peyvand Naimi remains in custody without trial or sentencing. Despite recent prisoner releases amid the ongoing crisis in the country, he has not been freed, raising further concerns about his safety and well-being.
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