Naser Akbari Rezaqeshlaghi, a media activist in Miandoab Prison, faces enforced disappearance. Concerns grow over torture and new charges.
Iran Human Rights Society, Friday, July 4, 2025 –Naser Akbari Rezaqeshlaghi, a media activist imprisoned in Miandoab Prison, has been cut off from his family for over 40 days, raising fears of enforced disappearance. This political prisoner from Shahin Dezh County faces potential torture and new fabricated charges. His case highlights Iran’s ongoing crackdown on dissent. Urgent action is needed to ensure his safety and uphold human rights.
Growing Concerns Over Enforced Disappearance
Naser Akbari Rezaqeshlaghi, a dedicated media activist, has had no contact with his family since May 19, 2025. Local sources report he was transferred from Miandoab Prison to an unknown location, likely an unofficial detention center run by the IRGC Intelligence or Ministry of Intelligence. The sudden halt in phone calls and ban on visits fuel suspicions of enforced disappearance. Prison authorities have provided no answers, leaving his fate uncertain.
Family Faces Threats and Hardship
Akbari’s family has sought answers from judicial and prison authorities but received only threats from security agencies. They warn that pursuing information could lead to further repercussions. Meanwhile, his wife struggles with financial hardship, as his detention has cut off the family’s income. The family, already facing poverty and renting challenges, is on the brink of collapse. This situation underscores the human toll of Iran’s political repression.
Unfair Arrest and Fabricated Charges
On April 10, 2025, security forces arrested Akbari without a final verdict from his appeals court case. The arrest was violent and lacked legal procedures. Initially, the Urmia Revolutionary Court sentenced him to 21 months in prison in March 2025 for “propaganda against the regime” and other baseless charges. Now, authorities are reportedly fabricating new charges, such as “spreading falsehoods,” despite his activities being limited to peaceful online expression.
History of Repression for Civic Activism
Akbari’s troubles began in December 2022, when IRGC Intelligence arrested him for “social media activities” and “membership in virtual groups.” After weeks of interrogation and threats, he was released on bail. However, the regime targeted him again in 2025, convicting him for his peaceful activism. This pattern of systematic repression shows how Iran silences critics and media activists.
Risk of Torture in Unofficial Detention Centers
Human rights observers fear Akbari may face intense interrogations and torture in an unofficial detention center. Iran’s security agencies have a long history of using cruel methods to extract false confessions. Such practices violate international standards, including Article 7 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which prohibits torture and degrading treatment. The lack of transparency heightens concerns for his safety.
Human Rights Violations in Akbari’s Case
Akbari’s case reveals multiple human rights violations:
– Arbitrary Arrest: His detention without a final verdict violates Article 9 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
– Denial of Fair Trial: He has been deprived of legal counsel and a fair hearing, breaching Article 10 of the Universal Declaration and Article 14 of the International Covenant.
– Enforced Disappearance: His transfer to an unknown location without family contact fits the pattern of enforced disappearances.
– Risk of Torture: The threat of cruel treatment in detention centers is a clear violation of international law.
These abuses reflect Iran’s broader strategy to suppress dissent and silence media activists.
A Call for Urgent Action
The uncertain fate of Naser Akbari Rezaqeshlaghi demands immediate attention from international human rights organizations. His enforced disappearance, coupled with the risk of torture and new charges, highlights the regime’s brutal tactics. The global community must pressure Iran to disclose his whereabouts, ensure his safety, and uphold his rights. Silence only emboldens further repression.
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