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

The Iranian regime continues its harsh crackdown on dissent, detaining approximately 6,000 people since the outbreak of the war on February 28. This intensified 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 arrested at their homes, with 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 yet to disclose the specific accusations, and he has not been able to contact them. State media have not reported these arrests, though some reformist outlets have covered the story.

Amnesty International reports that the crackdown targets civil society and regime opponents, with a notable increase in death sentences, especially for protesters before the war. The regime accuses many detainees of collaborating with Israel and the United States, using the ongoing conflict as justification for suppressing opposition.

This wave of arrests and executions reflects the regime's efforts to stifle dissent amid heightened tensions and public demonstrations, even as it commemorates Khamenei's legacy across Iran.