Ahwaz Witnesses Escalating Security Crackdown and New Wave of Arbitrary Arrests

Reports emerging from Ahwaz indicate a sharp deterioration in the security situation, with a new wave of arrests targeting Arab residents.

On 7 November 2026, security forces conducted extensive raids on residential homes in the Karameh neighbourhood of Ma’shour (Mahshahr), arresting at least seven Arab citizens and taking them to an undisclosed location.

According to informed sources, the operation was carried out by security forces dispatched from Ahwaz, accompanied by masked men dressed in black. The forces reportedly intimidated residents, spread fear and panic throughout the neighbourhood, searched homes, and confiscated personal belongings.

The seven detainees have been identified as:

1. Adel Othmani

2. Sultan Othmani

3. Tehran Othmani

4. Aziz Gharghouli

5. Ali Heydari

6. Mohsen Soleihawi

7. Ali Soleihawi

Despite repeated attempts by their families to obtain information, their whereabouts remain unknown. No official explanation has been provided regarding the reasons for their arrests, the charges against them, the security agency responsible, or the location where they are being held.

The continued denial of information to families, coupled with the absence of any disclosed legal grounds for the arrests, raises serious concerns about arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance, and violations of fundamental human rights.

The fate and whereabouts of the seven detainees remain unknown, leaving their families in a state of anguish and uncertainty.