Escalating Persecution of Bahá’ís in Iran: A Pregnant Woman's Plight
Ongoing Human Rights Violations Against Bahá’ís
GENEVA—25 May 2026—Boshra Mostafavi, a pregnant Bahá’í from Rafsanjan in southeastern Iran, is among many Bahá’ís who have been detained recently as the Iranian government intensifies its campaign of persecution against this religious minority.
Since the conflict erupted in February, nearly 80 Bahá’ís have been arrested, imprisoned, or detained, marking a troubling increase in human rights violations by Iranian authorities. Reports indicate over 400 incidents of state-sponsored abuses against Bahá’ís, including unlawful detentions, violent home invasions, property seizures, and judicial obstructions.
The Bahá’í International Community (BIC) has highlighted alarming cases, such as those of Peyvand Naimi and Borna Naimi, two cousins from Kerman who have reportedly endured severe torture, mock executions, and coerced confessions for crimes they did not commit.
Simin Fahandej, the BIC’s representative to the United Nations in Geneva, expressed disbelief that amid numerous crises, the Iranian government chooses to target an innocent community recognized globally for its peacefulness. She emphasized that true leadership should empower citizens rather than oppress them based on their beliefs, ethnicity, or gender.
Boshra Mostafavi was initially acquitted of charges several years ago, but the prosecution appealed, leading to her re-arrest on 25 April 2026. She now faces four months in prison while pregnant.
A judge reportedly stated during the appeal that Boshra must 'pay the price for being Bahá’í' in an Islamic nation. Alongside her, two other Bahá’í women, Didar Ahmadi and Nahid Naimi, also began serving their sentences on the same day.
Boshra's requests for medical leave, including for essential pregnancy-related appointments, have been denied. The Iranian government should at least permit her to attend a crucial medical test scheduled for 30 May.
Shakila Ghasemi, a 26-year-old from Kerman, has been imprisoned for over 100 days, including 10 weeks in solitary confinement, with minimal contact with her family since her arrest on 2 February following a raid on her home.
When Shakila's family sought her release from Kerman Prison after the conflict escalated on 28 February, authorities stated that 'No Bahá’í prisoner will be released,' despite other prisoners being granted leave.
Many Bahá’ís are facing medical emergencies due to prolonged solitary confinement and lack of medical care, compounded by the stress of being held without family contact, legal representation, or due process.
Peyvand Naimi, a swimming athlete, was arrested on 8 January on false charges and subjected to torture for ten consecutive days, including mock executions. He remains imprisoned without due process.
His cousin Borna, a karate champion, was detained on 1 March and also faced severe torture, including electric shocks and mock executions.
Mock executions are considered a form of mental torture and are prohibited under international law.
Ms. Fahandej condemned the imprisonment of a pregnant woman, stating it punishes both her and her unborn child. She urged Iranian leaders to recognize that every individual within their borders deserves equal human rights.
Fahandej called for the unconditional release of Boshra before her medical appointment on 30 May and urged the Iranian government to free all Bahá’ís unjustly imprisoned during this crisis.