Iran Executes Climber for Anti-Government Protest Allegations

Execution of Ali Sina Mostafavi

Iran executed mountaineer Ali Sina Mostafavi on October 14 for alleged violence during anti-government protests.

Conviction for 'Enmity Against God'

Mostafavi was convicted of 'moharebeh' or 'enmity against God' after allegedly participating in protests and possessing weapons.

Climbing Achievements

Mostafavi summited Island Peak in Nepal and reached Everest Base Camp in 2019, attempting Ama Dablam in 2022.

Family and Background

Mostafavi was married with a 13-year-old daughter, Respina, and played the tar, a traditional Persian lute.

Protest Context

Iran’s economic crisis sparked nationwide protests in December 2025, leading to violent crackdowns and mass arrests.

Arrest Details

Mostafavi was arrested on April 25, 2026, after allegedly joining protests and being beaten during arrest.

Forced Confession

Mostafavi reportedly signed confession papers under duress to release family members, with no independent lawyer available.

Family Members in Danger

Mostafavi’s wife, sister, and sister’s fiancé were also arrested and sentenced to prison for alleged propaganda against the regime.

Other Mountaineers at Risk

At least eight other mountaineers face execution or imprisonment, including Maryam Hadavand Siri and Fatemeh Jami.

Human Rights Concerns

Human rights groups say Mostafavi’s case involves forced confessions and sham trials lacking due process in Iran.

Call for Action

Human Rights for Sport urges climbers to raise awareness and contact international bodies to stop executions and release imprisoned climbers.

Last Message

Mostafavi asked prison guards to pass a message: 'I did not wage war against God, nor did I commit moharebeh that you should charge me with it; my fight was with you.'

“I did not wage war against God, nor did I commit moharebeh that you should charge me with it; my fight was with you.”