Iranians in Canada Honor Family Lost in Deadly Iran Protests
In Canada, many Iranian expatriates are grappling with the tragic loss of family members during protests in Iran. Among them is Tayebeh Poshtareh, who learned that her cousins, Hamid and Vahid Arzanlu, had been killed during demonstrations in Tehran on January 8, 2026. The Iranian government had initiated a brutal crackdown, resulting in a devastating environment for protestors.
Tragic Losses Amid Protests
Poshtareh found out about the deaths through an Instagram post. After confirming the news with a relative in Montreal, she learned that Hamid was shot first, followed by Vahid, who was trying to assist his brother. Both were taken to a hospital but ultimately succumbed to their injuries, with Hamid passing away on January 12, followed by Vahid shortly after.
Desire for a Better Iran
In expressing her grief, Poshtareh emphasized her cousins’ aspirations for a better future in Iran. “They wanted to ensure that Iran would become a better country,” she stated. Due to internet restrictions in Iran, Poshtareh has struggled to communicate with her family, adding to the emotional weight of the situation.
Reports of Repression and Fear
Another Iranian-Canadian, identified as Yasaman, faced her own tragedy. Her aunt was shot during a protest in Tehran and died when medical personnel were allegedly prohibited from treating her. Yasaman expressed her determination to ensure that her aunt’s death serves a purpose, stating, “I didn’t want my aunt’s blood to go in vain.”
Communication Challenges
While Yasaman can now connect with family occasionally, conversations often remain superficial due to fear of persecution. The Iranian regime exerts pressure on families of dissenters, making open dialogue dangerous.
Regime’s Acknowledgment and Manipulation of Death Toll
The situation in Iran remains dire, with conflicting reports about fatalities during protests. While the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency claims over 6,000 deaths, Iranian authorities only acknowledge about 3,100. These discrepancies highlight the opacity surrounding casualties, as the government has a history of underreporting deaths during civil unrest.
Families Forced to Conform
Reports indicate that families are coerced into signing documents regarding the cause of death of their loved ones, often under duress. This manipulation reflects the regime’s attempt to control narratives surrounding casualties. Activists like Arsalan Khanemuyipour shed light on cases where families are asked to falsely declare their deceased relatives as affiliated with the military or to pay hefty fees for their bodies.
Ambassadors for the Oppressed
Organizations such as the Hengaw Organization for Human Rights persist in documenting fatalities and sharing stories from Iran. As lines of communication remain fraught with challenges, their efforts highlight the vital need for truth in the face of oppression. Poshtareh and others are committed to amplifying the names and stories of those lost.
Call to Action
Amidst the turmoil, Poshtareh’s message resonates: “We have to speak up. We have to say their names.” The commitment of Iranian expats in Canada to honor their loved ones symbolizes a broader fight for human rights and dignity in Iran.
