Tuesday, February 17, 2026-A 17‑year‑old Iranian teenager, Sam Afshari, was reportedly wounded by gunfire during nationwide protests in Iran and later died after being taken into custody by security forces, according to human rights investigators and forensic testimony.
The incident has drawn intense criticism from rights groups who say it reflects a broader pattern of violent crackdowns on youth and children participating in demonstrations. Sam was injured during clashes with security personnel and was alive when detained, but subsequently died, raising serious concerns about conditions and treatment while in custody.
Human rights advocates have highlighted this case as part of what they describe as systematic targeting of young people and children in the protest movement, which erupted amid widespread unrest over economic hardship and political grievances. The death of Sam Afshari has sparked further outrage among activists and international observers, who say the loss of a minor underscores the escalating dangers faced by youth protesting in Iran. Calls for independent investigation and accountability have intensified as more details emerge.
The report of Sam’s death comes amid a wider environment of protests and alleged state violence in Iran, with security forces accused of using excessive force against demonstrators, including minors. Rights groups continue to document cases of injury, arrest, and death among young protesters, pressing for transparency and justice as the situation remains tense across the country.
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