During the continued crackdown on the January 2026 protests, two Ahwazi Arab citizens were killed in two different cities in Iran as a result of direct gunfire by security forces. These incidents have raised serious concerns about the use of lethal force against unarmed protesters and civilians.
Mohammad-Ali Arrar, 35, from Tostar (Shushtar), was shot dead on January 8, 2026 (19 Dey 1404) on Ammar Boulevard in the city. According to eyewitnesses, he was standing in front of his home near Ammar Mosque when he attempted to assist two young female protesters and was targeted by security forces. Local sources report that after being wounded, he was killed by two additional bullets fired at his heart and head—an act described by witnesses as an execution-style “final shot.”
Mohammad-Ali Arrar was buried on January 10, 2026 (21 Dey 1404) at the Tostar cemetery. However, reports indicate that security forces removed condolence banners from the walls of his home following the burial. Several days later, they also destroyed the memorial structure erected in his honor. According to his family and relatives, these actions caused further psychological pressure on the bereaved family.
In a separate incident, Ashkan Arrar, the cousin of Mohammad-Ali Arrar, was killed on January 7, 2026 (18 Dey 1404) in Shahriar, Tehran province, after being shot directly by security forces. While further details about the circumstances of his killing have not been made public, local sources confirm that he was also targeted by direct gunfire.
The killing of these two relatives within a short time span has once again highlighted the use of live ammunition against protesters and underscored the urgent need for independent, transparent, and impartial investigations into protest-related deaths. The families of the victims are demanding the truth be revealed, accountability for those responsible, and guarantees that such incidents will not be repeated.
