Concerns are growing for the safety of Peyvand Naimi, a 28-year-old member of the Bahá’í faith currently detained in Iran. His cousin, Sama Sabet, who resides in Dublin, Ireland, has voiced alarm over reports of torture, interrogation, and mock executions endured by Mr. Naimi since his arrest on January 8.
Arrest and Allegations
Mr. Naimi was arrested in connection with the Iranian government’s response to protests. He is being held at an Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) detention centre, where relatives state he faces “false charges.” The Bahá’í International Community reports that Mr. Naimi is in “serious danger” after undergoing two mock executions and prolonged interrogation.
Following weeks of reported torture, Mr. Naimi was compelled to make a confession on state television on February 1. He was subsequently accused of involvement in the deaths of three Basij security agents during the January protests, despite being in detention at the time. Further accusations surfaced on February 28, alleging he celebrated the death of Iran’s former supreme leader, Ali Khamenei – a claim Ms. Sabet states her cousin could not have known about due to his lack of access to communication even as imprisoned.
International Response and Concerns
Simin Fahandej, the UN’s Bahá’í International Community Representative, stated the Islamic Republic lacks “a single shred of evidence” to support the accusations against Mr. Naimi. She asserted that the employ of torture to extract a confession underscores that his persecution stems solely from his Bahá’í faith, a pattern of discrimination that has persisted for “almost five decades.”
Ms. Sabet reports that Mr. Naimi has been subjected to constant torture, interrogation, and denial of basic necessities like food and water. She maintains his complete innocence and calls for his immediate release. Ireland has consistently condemned the persecution of Bahá’ís in Iran, with Ireland’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Noel White, expressing concern over the limits placed on the rights of Bahá’ís – including access to education and legal representation – at the 58th Session of the UN Human Rights Council a year ago.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Bahá’í faith?
The source does not provide information about the Bahá’í faith itself, only that Mr. Naimi is a member and that the faith’s followers are subject to persecution in Iran.
What is the role of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC)?
The IRGC is the entity detaining Mr. Naimi, and the source indicates he was taken to an IRGC detention centre following his arrest.
How many Bahá’ís live in Ireland?
Approximately 500 members of the Bahá’í faith reside in Ireland.
What steps might be taken to secure Mr. Naimi’s release, and what further actions could the international community consider in response to this situation?
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