Iranian Government's Scapegoating of Baha’is Amid National Crisis Raises Alarm

Concerns Over Baha’i Community in Iran

Geneva – 3 February 2026 – As the Iranian populace demands justice and improvement in their nation, they are met with violence and repression, leading to significant loss of life. The Baha’i International Community (BIC) has expressed deep concern regarding the Iranian government's increasing tendency to target Baha’is as scapegoats during this national crisis, a pattern that has persisted over time, evident in state media and through heightened persecution.

Historically, during each national crisis since the 1979 Islamic Revolution—be it social, economic, or political—the Iranian authorities have systematically blamed the Baha’is, employing false accusations and orchestrated disinformation campaigns. This current situation mirrors those past instances.

In the last week, Channel 2 state television aired programs disseminating false claims against the Baha’i community, including coerced confessions from Baha’is. Reports indicate a rise in the arrest and detention of Baha’is nationwide.

On 1 February, the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), the regime's main media outlet, aired so-called 'confessions' from two Baha’is regarding the protests, which were evidently obtained under duress. Human rights organizations have long documented the practice of forced confessions in Iranian prisons, where detainees face pressure, threats, and even torture to extract false admissions. Broadcasting such confessions on state television marks a significant escalation in the government's campaign against the Baha’i community.

For decades, Iranian authorities have attempted to rationalize the persecution of Baha’is through hate speech and scapegoating. However, both Iranians and the international community are increasingly aware of the unfounded nature of these allegations, as the authorities have failed to provide any credible evidence to support their claims.

Ms. Fahandej, the BIC Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, stated, 'This is yet another effort by the Iranian government to distort the truth and mislead its citizens. This tactic is transparent, and its lack of foundation is evident. Throughout every national crisis, the Iranian authorities have consistently targeted the Baha’is.'

She further noted, 'The Baha’i community is frequently among the first to face false accusations and targeted disinformation campaigns. This pattern is repeating itself once again.'

Despite enduring false accusations and severe persecution, the Baha’is in Iran have consistently responded with resilience and a commitment to serve their country, never resorting to violence. Ms. Fahandej emphasized, 'Guided by their Faith's principles, Baha’is in Iran have steadfastly rejected violence throughout decades of relentless persecution. They have chosen not to engage in the hateful tactics of their oppressors. Their unwavering commitment to their beliefs, even in the face of adversity, underscores their dedication to truthfulness and their desire to contribute positively to their sacred homeland.'

During the recent UN Special Session on Iran at the Human Rights Council in Geneva, the BIC highlighted that, in addition to the Baha’i community's long history of persecution, many others in Iran are now facing injustices. The BIC expressed condolences regarding the loss of life reported across the nation.

Ms. Fahandej asserted, 'All Iranians, regardless of their religion, ethnicity, or background, deserve to have a significant role in shaping their country's future. This is a fundamental human right that no government can take away.'

She concluded, 'The Baha’is in Iran have faced injustice and persecution for four decades, driven by their love for their country and their commitment to its progress. The BIC urges the international community to categorically denounce the scapegoating and persecution of Baha’is and advocate for justice for all Iranians.'