Ali Golavar

Ali Golavar’s tragic death on 17 May 2022, during Iran’s Woman-Life-Freedom movement, underscores the deep, painful rifts caused by the regime’s violence. Ali, only 22 years old, was born in 1999 and lived in Behbahan as the son of Behzad, a deputy police commander.

While little is publicly known about his life, it is said that Ali, upon discovering his father’s involvement in the brutal November 2019 crackdown, often called “Bloody November” or Abane Khoonin, was devastated.

In a shocking and heartbreaking act of protest, Ali took his father’s shotgun and, outside the Behbahan Governorship building, fatally shot himself in the throat. Those who knew him reported that Ali had often expressed disapproval of his father’s service to the regime but had not realized the extent of his involvement in the deaths of innocent protesters. Stricken by the weight of these revelations, he chose this public act as a testament against his father’s actions and the regime’s oppression.

Following his death, Ali was buried on 18 May 2022, at Behesht-e Rezvan Cemetery in Behbahan. His story, though brief, captures the profound despair felt by many young Iranians who yearn for a just and equitable society. Ali’s sacrifice exemplifies the powerful resistance and integrity of the younger generation, who honour the struggle for justice, even within their own families.

As Iranians remember Ali Gol Avar, they reaffirm their dedication to establishing a future of freedom, democracy, and equality under laws that serve the people. In memory of Ali and all those who have stood up to oppression, Iranians continue the path toward a nation free of tyranny, honouring each life lost to this cause.