Mohammad Moein Salehi

Mohammad Moein Salehi, a 19-year-old from Shahriar in Tehran, was tragically killed during the nationwide protests known as “Bloody Aban” or “Aban 98.” On 17 November 2019, Mohammad was shot in the head by security forces during a peaceful demonstration, and his life was taken instantly.

As the sole breadwinner for his mother and sister after the loss of his father two years earlier, Mohammad’s life was one of responsibility and hard work. The sudden 300% increase in petrol prices sparked the November 2019 protests and it had a direct impact on his daily life as a labourer, pushing him to join the nationwide outcry. Alongside fellow citizens, Mohammad took to the streets to demand justice and to voice his frustration with the rising costs and ongoing injustices.

On that fateful Sunday, as demonstrators gathered to protest peacefully, they were met with brutal force. Security forces attacked the crowd, opening fire on unarmed people with live ammunition. One of the bullets struck Mohammad directly in the head, killing him instantly.

He was buried quietly in the local cemetery, with his grieving mother and sister by his side, forced into silence by the regime. The details of Mohammad’s murder were buried with him, as authorities threatened his family against speaking out. Despite this, Mohammad’s name was included in Amnesty International’s report as one of the many victims of “Bloody November 2019”

Mohammad Moein Salehi was not just a victim but one of the countless brave souls who sacrificed their lives in the fight for freedom and democracy. His life, like those of so many others, should not be forgotten.

We honour Mohammad and the immense sacrifices made by young Iranians like him. Their bravery paved the way for future generations to cherish and protect the freedoms that were fought for with their blood.