A Norway-based rights organisation, Iran Human Rights, has reported that at least 3,646 people have been arrested in Iran since the outbreak of war on February 28, warning that the true figure is likely much higher due to ongoing internet restrictions in the country.
According to the group, at least 767 of those arrests were recorded after a ceasefire began on April 8, suggesting that the crackdown has continued despite reduced hostilities.
The organisation said many detainees are facing serious allegations, including espionage, collaboration with foreign intelligence agencies, sharing sensitive information such as images or coordinates, and attempting to form operational or armed groups.
Authorities have also reportedly targeted individuals accused of using and distributing Starlink satellite internet devices to bypass government-imposed internet blackouts, as well as those suspected of links to pro-monarchist movements.
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Among those arrested are more than 100 civil society activists, including prominent human rights lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh, who was detained on April 2.
Her daughter, Mehraveh Khandan, revealed on social media that Sotoudeh had managed to make her first phone call since her arrest, confirming she is being held by Iran’s intelligence ministry, though her exact location remains undisclosed.
Another high-profile detainee, Narges Mohammadi, remains in custody following her earlier arrest in December, before the escalation of conflict and protests earlier this year.
Mohammadi, who marked her 54th birthday in prison in the northern city of Zanjan, is reportedly in critical health after suffering a heart attack in March, according to her foundation.
Rights groups say the wave of arrests highlights growing concerns over civil liberties in Iran, particularly during periods of conflict, as authorities tighten control over information and dissent.
