Hamid Rasouli

Hamid Rasouli, aged 32, was killed during the November 2019 protests on 17 November. Born on May 20, 1987, in Qazvin, he was the son of Haydar and had two sisters.

Hamid held an associate degree in mechanics and had worked various jobs, the most recent one in a manufacturing factory and then temporarily as a Snapp driver in Karaj while searching for more permanent employment. Known for his calm, polite, and cheerful demeanor, he loved football and was a devoted supporter of the Esteghlal team.

After two years of unemployment, poverty, and a sense of injustice, he joined the nationwide Bloody Aban protests in response to the sudden 300% increase in fuel prices. On November 17, Hamid joined a gathering in the 45-meter area of Golshahr, Karaj. Security forces attacked the protest, scattering demonstrators with live ammunition. Hamid was struck by two bullets, one piercing his heart and killing him instantly.

Following his death, the IRGC demanded 50 million Tomans for his body’s release, a sum that his family could not afford. They threatened to bury Hamid without notifying his family if the payment was not made. Finally, because his father was a veteran of the Iran-Iraq war, they released Hamid’s body under conditions: his family had to publicly state he had died in an accident, and the funeral was to be held in complete silence with minimal attendance. Hamid was buried on 20 November 2019, in Golzar Alvand Cemetery in Qazvin, under tight security. Authorities assigned a cleric who conducted the service while condemning the “rioters.”

Hamid’s family faced ongoing harassment and threats from the regime following his death. Even visits to his grave were met with hostility from authorities, who worked to isolate and intimidate them.

We will not forget Hamid Rasouli and all those who stood courageously against the tyranny of the oppressive regime in the fight for freedom, democracy, and justice in Iran.