Human Rights Activist Kianoosh Sanjari Takes Life in Protest Against Iranian Regime

The loss of Kianoosh Sanjari, a notable human rights activist in Iran, draws attention to the broader struggle for freedom and reform in a regime criticized for its treatment of dissenters and political prisoners.

In a heartbreaking display of protest against the Iranian regime, former journalist and human rights advocate Kianoosh Sanjari took his own life in Tehran. In a poignant social media post, he declared that he would end his life if four political prisoners were not released by 7 PM local time. When the deadline passed without action from the authorities, he shared a final message: “My life will end after this tweet,” expressing a desire for a future where Iranians could overcome oppression.

Sanjari's death has been confirmed by fellow activists, emphasizing the personal costs of dissent in Iran. His advocacy for democracy and criticism of the Iranian government, particularly Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, marked him as a prominent figure in the fight for human rights in the country.

The four prisoners Sanjari demanded to be freed—Fateme Sepehari, Nasreen Shakrami, Tomaj Salehi, and Arsham Rezaei—were all involved in the protests following the death of Mahsa Amini, a significant incident that has become a rallying point for civil rights activists. Sanjari’s activism was not without personal sacrifice; from 1999 to 2007, he faced repeated arrests and imprisonment due to his political activities. After seeking asylum in Norway, he was involved in media work before returning to Iran in 2016, where he was again jailed for his outspoken views.

Released on bail in 2019 for medical reasons, Sanjari later revealed his traumatic experiences in Iranian custody, including alleged torture and mental health struggles. His untimely death is a stark reminder of the ongoing plight of those fighting for freedom of speech and human rights in a regime that continues to suppress dissent. Activists emphasize that Sanjari's story symbolizes the enduring pain and resilience in the collective struggle for justice in Iran.