Ahvaz Witnesses Outcry Following Tragic Self-Immolation
A wave of public anger has swept through Ahvaz, Iran, following the self-immolation of 20-year-old Ahmad Baldi on or around Thursday, November 6, 2025. The incident, which left Baldi in critical condition with over 70% burns, occurred in protest against the demolition of his father's street stall by municipal agents. The subsequent protest gathered in front of Taleghani Hospital, where Baldi is currently hospitalized, demanding justice and accountability from local authorities.
Details of the Incident and Municipal Action
The tragic event unfolded when municipal agents from District 3 of Ahvaz, accompanied by the State Security Force (SSF), arrived at Zeitoun Park to demolish a stall belonging to Mojahed Baldi, Ahmad's father, an Arab compatriot. Reports indicate that the demolition proceeded without prior notice. As the father was not present, his wife and son, Ahmad, attempted to prevent the destruction by staging a sit-in inside the stall. Witnesses claim that a deputy mayor violently removed Baldi's wife from the premises. In a desperate act of protest, Ahmad then doused himself with gasoline and set himself on fire. Eyewitnesses further alleged that the agents present did not intervene to save him, instead observing with 'mockery and indifference'.
Protests and Demands for Accountability
On the evening of November 6, 2025, a crowd gathered outside Taleghani Hospital to protest the actions of the Ahvaz municipality and the State Security Force. Protesters voiced strong condemnation of the incident and called for the immediate dismissal of Amini, the mayor of Ahvaz, and his deputies. They also demanded the trial of all individuals deemed responsible for Ahmad Baldi's self-immolation. In response to the escalating tensions, security forces have reportedly placed the area around the hospital under tight control, anticipating further demonstrations.
Opposition Leader Condemns Incident
The incident has drawn sharp criticism from opposition figures. Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, the President-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), issued a statement expressing her wishes for Ahmad Baldi's swift recovery. She characterized the self-immolation as a profound warning to the current regime, stating that 'the flames that engulfed Ahmad, though heartbreaking, are a warning to a regime that cannot escape the people's wrath and will advance to burn down Khamenei's office.' Rajavi further highlighted the disparity between the alleged plundering of national wealth by ruling authorities and the demolition of stalls belonging to the most deprived segments of the population.
6 Comments
Eric Cartman
The government's heavy-handed tactics are clearly a major factor here, pushing individuals to their breaking point. Still, framing this solely as a political uprising might overshadow the immediate human cost and need for social support.
Kyle Broflovski
It's shocking to see someone resort to such a desperate act, which speaks volumes about the perceived lack of options. However, protests, while important for accountability, also need to consider long-term solutions for systemic issues.
Stan Marsh
This act of desperation shows the true face of oppression. Support the resistance!
Kyle Broflovski
The municipal authorities undoubtedly have a role in urban planning, but the alleged brutality and lack of notice are unacceptable. Such actions only breed resentment and can lead to catastrophic outcomes like this.
Eric Cartman
The mayor and his deputies must be held accountable. Disgraceful actions.
dedus mopedus
Solidarity with the Ahvaz protestors. Their demands are absolutely legitimate.