Iranian-Canadian Tayebeh Poshtareh came across distressing news on Instagram when she learned about the deaths of her cousins in Iran during protests. Her second cousins, Hamid and Vahid Arzanlu, were shot in Tehran on January 8 amidst a violent crackdown by Iran’s government following nationwide demonstrations that began late last year. Due to an internet blackout, Poshtareh, residing in Newmarket, Ont., couldn’t convey her condolences to her extended family.
After seeing the Instagram post, she reached out to a relative in Montreal, who had received the news from family in Iran and confirmed the tragic incident. According to the relative, Hamid was shot first by Iranian forces, and Vahid was shot while attempting to assist him. Despite being taken to the hospital, both succumbed to their injuries, with Hamid passing away on January 12 and Vahid a few days later.
Poshtareh revealed that her cousins were protesting for a better life, aspiring to improve Iran for their children. She emphasized their kindness and care for family, friends, and their homeland. Even with improved internet access in Iran now, communication remains challenging as her family there can only contact her by phone. The lack of communication has taken an emotional toll on her Canadian family, while those in Iran face pressure from the regime.
Yasaman, an Iranian resident in Toronto, received distressing news about her aunt being shot while protesting in Tehran. Despite the tragic loss, Yasaman is determined to not let her aunt’s death be in vain and hopes to use her voice to aid others in Iran. Although communication remains sporadic, Yasaman can briefly connect with her family in Iran, albeit under fear and uncertainty during their conversations.
The families of the deceased face coercion from the regime, as Poshtareh’s family members were compelled to sign documents falsely stating the cause of death and face demands to label the deceased as part of the IRGC forces. Activist Arsalan Khanemuyipour highlighted the regime’s tactics of pressuring families to manipulate the narrative around the deaths. Families are either coerced to acknowledge their loved ones as part of the IRGC or pay exorbitant amounts to retrieve their bodies.
Amid Iran’s digital restrictions, determining an accurate death toll from the protests is challenging. Conflicting reports suggest varying numbers of casualties, with the government downplaying the figures. Activists and observers believe the death toll is significantly higher than reported, with Khanemuyipour estimating tens of thousands of fatalities.
Independent organizations like the Hengaw Organization for Human Rights strive to verify and share the stories of those who lost their lives during the protests. Sharing information becomes crucial when the government suppresses dissent. Poshtareh, observing the unfolding events from a distance, feels compelled to speak out for her cousins and others affected, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness and honoring the victims’ names.
