Iranian Regime Arrests 6,000 Amid Crackdown on Dissent Since War Began

The Iranian regime continues its harsh crackdown on dissent, arresting approximately 6,000 people since the outbreak of the war on February 28. This wave of repression coincides with nationwide events commemorating the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, during which the regime seeks to project strength and unity.

Recently, two well-known environmental activists, Homan Jokar and Sepideh Kashani, were detained at their homes and had their electronic devices confiscated. Both had previously been imprisoned for six years until 2024 on espionage charges. Their lawyer told The New York Times that authorities have not disclosed the specific accusations against them, and he has yet to establish contact with his clients. State media have not reported these arrests, though reformist-affiliated outlets have covered the story.

According to Amnesty International, the crackdown targets civil society and regime opponents, with a notable increase in the use of the death penalty, especially against protesters who demonstrated before the war. The regime accuses many detainees of collaborating with Israel and the United States, using the ongoing conflict as justification for suppressing all opposition.

These developments highlight the regime's intensified efforts to silence dissent amid the ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Iran, the US, and Israel.