Iran accused of widening property seizures against Baha’is and critics

Iranian authorities are facing allegations of expanding property seizures against members of the Baha’i faith, dissidents and other government critics, according to rights groups cited by Deutsche Welle.

The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency in Iran reported a late-August wave of arrests, home and business searches, and property seizures involving Baha’i citizens. The community is not officially recognised under Iran’s constitution and has faced longstanding discrimination.

Amnesty International said persecution of Baha’is intensified after the 12-day Iran-Israel war in June 2025, alleging a state campaign that falsely accused members of the faith of spying for and collaborating with Israel. The International Baha’i Community said discriminatory practices had further restricted Baha’is’ ability to earn a living amid severe economic hardship.

The reported seizures extend beyond religious minorities. Iranian authorities have reportedly identified and seized assets belonging to more than 400 people living abroad whom they described as “supporters of the enemy”, including actors, athletes and journalists.

Inside Iran, cafe-chain manager Sadegh Saedinia reportedly received a 12-year prison sentence, a two-year operating ban and total asset confiscation over online content related to anti-government protests in Qom. Monitors have also reported the seizure of household items including gold, electronics, work tools, wedding rings and children’s toys.

Analysts cited by Deutsche Welle said the confiscations were unlikely to make a meaningful contribution to Iran’s large budget deficit. They said properties may be auctioned below market value to politically connected buyers, suggesting the policy may function more as intimidation than revenue raising. The allegations have not been independently verified in every case, and the extent of central coordination remains unclear.