IRAN - Homayoun Shabankareh sentenced to death

October 17, 2026 - IRAN. Homayoun Shabankareh sentenced to death

On espionage charges

Based on information received by HRANA, Homayoun Shabankareh, 22, was sentenced to death by Branch 2 of the Karaj Revolutionary Court, presided over by Judge Mehdi Sabzevarnejad (Sabzevari).

An informed source close to the family of Shabankareh, who is currently held at Karaj Central Penitentiary, confirmed the news to HRANA, stating: “Homayoun Shabankareh’s death sentence was issued on charges of moharebeh and espionage and was officially communicated to him on October 17, 2026. Another judge involved in the case is Mehdi Razavi.”

Shabankareh was arrested at his home on May 14, 2026, in connection with the military conflict and subsequently transferred to Karaj Central Penitentiary. During his arrest, security agents searched his residence for three hours and confiscated several personal belongings, including his laptop.

Following his arrest, he was held in solitary confinement in Ward 12 of Karaj Central Penitentiary for 97 days. After the interrogation process concluded, he was transferred to the prison’s general ward for 12 days. He was subsequently returned to solitary confinement from August 30 to September 30, 2026, during which time he went on a hunger strike. Shabankareh, who is now facing the death penalty, has also attempted suicide while held in solitary confinement.

Homayoun Shabankareh is an animal rights activist and artist. Prior to his arrest, he lived with his mother.