Iran arrests Azar Mansouri and reformist leaders on security charges
Iranian state media announced on Sunday that security and judicial authorities had launched a wave of arrests targeting three prominent figures in the reformist movement, a move reflecting escalating internal political tensions. Those arrested included Azar Mansouri, head of the Reform Front; former parliamentarian Ebrahim Asgharzadeh; and former diplomat Mohsen Aminzadeh, on charges related to undermining national security and national unity.
Details of the charges and legal proceedings
The Fars News Agency, affiliated with the Revolutionary Guard, reported that security forces carried out arrest warrants against the three individuals, leveling serious charges against them. These charges included "targeting national unity," "adopting anti-constitutional stances," "aligning with enemy propaganda and promoting surrender," and attempting to establish clandestine subversive mechanisms.
In a related development, the Iranian judiciary's Mizan news agency confirmed the arrests, stating that four members of a political group (whose names were not initially disclosed) were charged with security offenses following the completion of investigations. The agency described the detainees as "active agents working for the Zionist regime and the United States," charges that typically carry severe penalties in the Iranian legal system.
Backgrounds and political history of the arrested individuals
Azar Mansouri is a prominent figure in Iranian politics, serving as the head of the Reform Front, the main alliance of reformist parties in the country. Mansouri previously served as an advisor to former President Mohammad Khatami and has a long history of clashes with the authorities. She was arrested following widespread protests after the 2009 presidential election and sentenced to three years in prison for disrupting public order.
Ebrahim Asgharzadeh , a former member of parliament, is historically known as one of the student leaders who participated in the storming of the US embassy in Tehran in 1979, before later becoming a prominent figure in the reformist movement critical of hardline policies. Meanwhile, Mohsen Aminzadeh as Deputy Foreign Minister under President Khatami and is considered a veteran diplomat aligned with the moderate faction.
General context and timing implications
These arrests come at a time of sharp political polarization in Iran, particularly following the fallout from the 2022 protests sparked by the death of young activist Mahsa Amini. Mansouri had taken a bold stance during that period, using her social media accounts to criticize the government's repressive policies, stating: "When all avenues for making one's voice heard are closed, protests erupt in the streets, and repression is the worst way to deal with protesters.".
Observers of Iranian affairs believe that this step carries deep political implications, as it indicates the desire of the conservative movement to tighten its grip on the internal scene and reduce the room for maneuver for the reformist movement, especially with the accusations related to "cooperation with foreign powers," which weakens the ability of these figures to influence public opinion or participate in any future political events.
