Iran probes alleged police torture death of activist

Iran's reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian has initiated an investigation into the death of Mohammad Mir Mousavi, a 36-year-old man who allegedly died from police torture while in custody. Mousavi was arrested following a street brawl in Lahijan, Gilan province, and died two days later. Activists claim he was severely beaten at a police station in Langarud, with reports of his body showing signs of torture, including bleeding and wounds. Five police officers have been temporarily detained as part of the ongoing investigation. The incident has drawn attention due to its similarity to the 2022 death of Mahsa Amini, which ignited widespread protests across Iran. Amini's death, attributed to police violence, highlighted the ongoing issues of human rights abuses within the country. The rights group Hengaw has reported that Mousavi's family faced pressure from Iranian security agencies to remain silent about the circumstances surrounding his death. Mousavi was identified as a member of Iran's Gilak minority, which may exacerbate inter-communal tensions in Gilan and beyond. Activists fear that this latest case could lead to further unrest, as it underscores the ongoing struggle against police brutality and the lack of accountability for security forces in Iran. The investigation into Mousavi's death is part of a broader context of increasing scrutiny on the Iranian government regarding its treatment of detainees. The international community continues to monitor these developments, as they reflect the ongoing challenges faced by human rights activists in the country.