On September 30, 2022, this tragic event unfolded when security forces opened fire on peaceful protesters in Zahedan, resulting in the deaths of over 100 people, including at least a dozen children. This gruesome incident is commemorated as one of the regime’s heinous crimes against humanity.
Despite extensive security measures, protests erupted in various cities of Sistan and Baluchestan province on the anniversary of Bloody Friday. Strikes were reported on Saturday morning in cities such as Zahedan, Saravan, Chabahar, and Nimruz, demonstrating the enduring anger and grief over the loss of innocent lives.
#Iran: Sistan&Baluchestan Province: Blood and Pain
In Iran, Sistan&Baluchestan province is always without a doubt a part of every single conversation relating poverty, malnutrition, lack of facilities, water shortage, unemployment,&education difficulties. https://t.co/UdnRbxa8Io pic.twitter.com/eJkKESlfVN— NCRI-FAC (@iran_policy) September 14, 2018
Security forces maintained a heavy presence on the anniversary itself to prevent protest rallies, following a day of intense demonstrations on the eve of the anniversary. During these protests in at least five cities, security forces opened fire on civilians, causing injuries to at least 19 people, including children. Shockingly, the Makki Mosque in Zahedan, a place of worship, was also attacked.
Despite the risks and the heavy-handed response from security forces, the people of Sistan and Baluchestan persisted in their protest rallies throughout the day and night. Fires were lit in various parts of Zahedan, and in Shirabad district, protesters blocked roads with fires, chanting anti-regime slogans such as “Death to Khamenei!” and “Death to the dictator!”
September 30—Zahedan, southeast #Iran
The people of Shirabad district hold nightly protests on the anniversary of the Bloody Friday massacre despite heavy security measures by the regime.#IranProtests #جمعه_خونین_زاهدان pic.twitter.com/nM2kVqoCXq— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) September 30, 2023
Videos shared on social media platforms captured these harrowing scenes, revealing the courage and resilience of the protesters. As Sunday morning arrived, a significant security presence remained in Zahedan, underscoring the regime’s concerns about the continuation of protests.
The Bloody Friday of Zahedan serves as a stark reminder of the need for justice and accountability in Iran, as the Baluch people continue to demand their rights and freedom, undeterred by the regime’s attempts to suppress their voices.
MEK Iran (follow us on Twitter and Facebook), Maryam Rajavi’s on her site, Twitter & Facebook, NCRI (Twitter & Facebook), and People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran – MEK IRAN – YouTu