Iran: Disability Advocate Zahra Hojjat Arrested in Mashhad | Hengaw

Zahra Hojjat, director of the Hamdam Rehabilitation Center in Mashhad, Iran, was arrested last week by forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), according to reports from the Hengaw Human Rights Organization.

Hojjat, known for her advocacy for girls and women with disabilities and often referred to as the “mother of 400 girls” by activists, was taken into custody after refusing a request from the IRGC to utilize the rehabilitation center as a shield for their personnel, Hengaw reported. The center provides assistance, education, and support to children with special needs.

Following her arrest, Hojjat was transferred to an undisclosed location, and her family has been denied contact or information regarding her whereabouts.

The arrest occurs amidst a broader context of repression in Iran, where the country consistently ranks low in global gender equality indices. A recent report from Hengaw notes that Iran again ranks near the bottom of the Global Gender Gap Index in 2024.

Separately, Sadegh Mansouri was likewise arrested in Mashhad, with no further information available after ten days, according to Hengaw. Hrana reported the arrest of four citizens in various cities across Iran, though details regarding their cases remain limited.

As of Wednesday, March 25, 2026, Iranian authorities have not released a statement regarding Hojjat’s arrest or the charges she may face.