Iran's Crackdown on Baha’i Shopkeepers for Observing Religious Practices

Intensified Repression of Baha’i Community in Shiraz

In a significant move against religious freedom, Iranian officials have summoned and interrogated numerous Baha’i shopkeepers in Shiraz. This action follows their decision to close businesses in April to observe Baha’i holy days, a peaceful tradition that is now being characterized as 'propaganda against the regime.'

On May 18, representatives from the Office of Public Places visited Baha’i-owned establishments, interrogating the owners about their faith and the reasons behind their closures during these sacred days. Just two days later, at least 25 shopkeepers were officially summoned and charged with 'promoting the deviant Baha’i sect,' a derogatory term often used by Iranian authorities to undermine the Baha’i Faith.

Those summoned received detailed forms and were directed to Branch 10 of the judiciary, managed by Deputy Prosecutor Zahra Ajdari. The bail for each case has been set at a staggering 400 million tomans, with authorities warning that non-compliance would lead to the freezing of equivalent amounts from the individuals' bank accounts.

Although Iranian law allows business owners to close their shops for up to 15 days each year without facing penalties, the state is now reinterpreting Baha’i observances as illegal religious promotion. Sources indicate that when shopkeepers questioned the legitimacy of these charges, officials responded, 'We are the law. Whatever we define as law is the law.'

This situation has raised alarms among human rights advocates and international observers, who view it as part of a larger pattern of systemic discrimination and economic oppression aimed at the Baha’i community in Iran. Many small business owners in Shiraz have either received summonses or anticipate being called in the near future.

The Baha’i International Community has consistently condemned these actions, calling on the Iranian government to honor its international commitments to safeguard religious freedom and to halt the persecution of religious minorities.

Understanding the Baha’i Faith's Position in Iran

The Baha’i Faith, which represents Iran's largest non-Muslim religious minority, is not acknowledged under the Islamic Republic’s constitution. Followers of this faith have historically faced discrimination in various aspects, including education, employment, and the freedom to practice their religion.