The recent death of Ali Rahbar, a 33-year-old fitness coach, after his arrest during protests in Mashhad, Iran, has sparked severe concerns regarding the conduct of security forces amidst ongoing civil unrest. Rahbar was detained on January 8 during a wave of protests against the Iranian government, and reports from his family indicate that he was alive at the time of his arrest but died shortly thereafter, with the only communication from authorities being a notification to collect his body.

This incident unfolds against the backdrop of widespread protests that erupted in December due to public dissatisfaction with the government's handling of various socio-economic issues. Ali Rahbar's case highlights the risks faced by civilians who engage in demonstrations, as the authorities have not only curtailed free speech but also allegedly resorted to violent measures, including the use of lethal force against protesters. This raises alarming questions about the legality and morality of actions taken by Iranian security forces.

Furthermore, Rahbar's story sheds light on the potential for extrajudicial executions under the pretext of law enforcement. Families of those apprehended in recent protests have expressed similar fears about the safety and treatment of their loved ones in custody. As the Iranian regime faces mounting pressure internally and from the international community regarding human rights abuses, incidents like these could lead to increased scrutiny of their practices and calls for accountability on the global stage.