During Friday prayers at the Makki Mosque in Zahedan, religious leader Maulvi Abdul Hameed Ismailzahi recalled the events of “Black Friday” in Zahedan and Khash, emphasising the deaths of civilians during the crackdowns.
Maulvi Abdul Hameed stated that on that day, citizens had gathered for Friday prayers without any intention of protesting, but military and security forces opened fire on worshippers. In the aftermath, government agencies alleged that the victims were linked to armed groups or separatist movements. Subsequent investigations later indicated that these accusations were unfounded.
“When the innocence of the victims became clear, government representatives held meetings with affected families,” Maulvi Abdul Hameed said. “They offered compensation and apologies, but many families rejected these offers, demanding accountability for the killings. Some perpetrators were sentenced to imprisonment, but families argued that the punishments did not meet the standards of justice under Sharia law.”
He also referred to a government meeting held on September 21, 2025, at the Makki Mosque, attended by senior government officials and military commanders. According to him, while authorities initially proposed holding the meeting in a government institution, it was instead conducted in the mosque to respect local traditions and the sentiments of families. During the meeting, government representatives acknowledged mistakes and provided compensation exceeding the judicially mandated amount.
He further noted that some families chose not to have their names listed officially due to personal or security concerns, leaving their matters “in the hands of God.” “An official apology delivered publicly by high-level representatives is unprecedented in Iran’s history,” he added.
Reflecting on the victims, Maulvi Abdul Hameed said:
“As long as we live, the memory of the martyrs of Zahedan and Khash will remain alive. They sacrificed their lives for justice and freedom and were oppressed by security forces. No one can erase their memory from the hearts of the people.”
The term “Black Friday” is used locally to refer to the military crackdowns in Zahedan and Khash, where civilians were killed during and after Friday prayers. The events are commemorated annually as a reminder of the demand for justice and accountability in Western (Iran-administered) Balochistan.