Arshia Gheysarbeigi, a Kurdish citizen from Sarableh in Ilam Province, was arrested on 4 May 2026 and is now facing the serious charges of “moharebeh” and “corruption on earth” — charges that can carry the death penalty in Iran. He had previously been arrested during the Woman, Life, Freedom uprising in Sarableh.
Arshia and his younger brother, Arshak, who was only 15 years old, were both among the protesters of the Woman, Life, Freedom uprising. Authorities summoned and arrested Arshak, telling the family that he would remain in detention until Arshia turned himself in.
According to reports, Arshia was subjected to severe violence during his arrest and interrogation, resulting in a broken jaw, nose, and teeth. Since his arrest, he has been denied access to a lawyer, family visits, and effective medical care. Reports also indicate that interrogations have continued in solitary confinement.
