The Iranian government has begun seizing the assets of the Baha'i minority, and this religious group is under severe economic pressure. While the United States is trying to increase economic pressures on Iran, ordinary citizens are facing growing financial difficulties.
Suppression of Baha'is and Increasing Economic Pressure
Human rights groups have reported that Iranian officials are increasingly using asset seizures against religious minorities, dissidents, and government critics. This action has added new economic pressures for individuals already facing rising living costs.
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Baha'is, who emerged in Iran in the 19th century, are not recognized under the laws of the Islamic Republic and, unlike Jews, Christians, and Zoroastrians, are not protected by the constitution. This makes them vulnerable to long-standing discrimination and persecution.
Concerning Reports and Statistics
The human rights organization "Human Rights Activists in Iran" (HRANA) reported at the end of August 2023 a "wave of arrests, home and business inspections, and asset seizures" of Baha'i citizens. Additionally, Amnesty International has stated that the persecution of Baha'is has intensified since the 12-day war between Iran and Israel in June 2025.
According to Pedideh Sabati, spokesperson for the Baha'i International Community, the current economic conditions are causing all people in Iran to face financial hardships, but Baha'is are suffering more. She added that the judiciary is using poverty as a lever of pressure and demanding heavy bail amounts.
In addition to religious minorities, the Iranian government has issued judicial orders to identify and seize the assets of over 400 individuals residing abroad. These individuals have been labeled as "supporters of the enemy" and include expatriate actors, athletes, and journalists.
Given the rising statistics of seizures, some observers are questioning whether these actions are intended to fill the government's treasury during economic pressure.
Economic analysts believe that the financial impact of these seizures is minimal and cannot resolve Iran's fundamental economic problems. Furthermore, some of them argue that the government is increasing the economic burden on ordinary citizens.
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