The violence currently sweeping through Iran is no longer confined to the streets. Hospitals, doctors, and even wounded patients are increasingly becoming targets of state repression. The World Health Organization (WHO) has now officially confirmed reports that security forces are raiding medical facilities and attacking healthcare personnel.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has confirmed that several doctors were arrested specifically while treating wounded protesters in Iran. He has issued an urgent demand for the immediate release of all detained healthcare workers, emphasizing a universal principle: medical personnel must never be intimidated or punished for providing care.
Hospitals under siege: raids in Ilam and Tehran
Reports from the ground paint a grim picture of the violation of medical neutrality. According to the WHO and local witnesses:
- Khomeini Hospital (Ilam): In early January, security forces launched a violent raid on this facility. Wounded protesters were forcibly removed from their beds, and medical services were temporarily shut down.
- Sina Hospital (Tehran): Reports have emerged of security forces deploying tear gas inside the hospital premises, endangering both patients and staff.
- Emergency Services: More than 50 paramedics have been injured in recent weeks, and several healthcare facilities have sustained significant structural damage.
The world medical Association (WMA) demands accountability
The World Medical Association (WMA) has joined the chorus of condemnation. In an open letter, WMA President Jacqueline Kitulu stated that these actions violate fundamental ethical principles of the medical profession and core human rights. She stressed that doctors must be able to carry out their duties without fear, pressure, or state interference.
When the act of saving a life is treated as a criminal offense, the regime is not just fighting protesters; it is declaring war on the right to health and the right to life itself.
The criminalization of care: the case of Dr. Alireza Golchini
Perhaps the most chilling example of these human rights violations in Iran is the case of surgeon Dr. Alireza Golchini.
On January 10, 2026, Dr. Golchini was violently arrested at his home in Ghazvin in front of his family. His “crime” was publicly stating that he was prepared to provide medical treatment to any wounded protester. For this act of professional duty, he has been charged with “Moharebeh” (War against God)—a charge that carries the death penalty in Iran.
Similarly, Dr. Ameneh Soleimani from Ardabil was arrested for providing aid to the injured. These cases demonstrate a clear strategy: by criminalizing medical assistance, the regime hopes to leave protesters with no safe place to turn.
Take action: protect those who save lives
The international community cannot remain silent while doctors are sentenced to death for upholding their Hippocratic Oath. We must act to protect the healers.
- Raise Awareness: Share the stories of Dr. Alireza Golchini and Dr. Ameneh Soleimani. Anonymity is the regime’s greatest ally.
- Demand Diplomatic Pressure: Contact your representatives and urge them to support international resolutions protecting medical neutrality in Iran.
- Support Documentation: Help Verein Welle continue our mission to document these atrocities and provide the evidence needed for future legal accountability.
The world is watching. Medical care is a human right, not a crime.
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