On November 3, 2025, Iranian columnist, feminist writer, and translator Shirin Karimi was arrested when intelligence agents raided her home, confiscated her books and electronic devices, without explanation, and took her to an unknown location, according to news reports.
Karimi, who holds a master’s degree in sociology from the University of Tehran, was one of at least six left-wing intellectuals detained that day. No charges were made public.
She has translated and written columns for the political economy monthly Naghde Eqtesad Siyasi. The publication’s editor-in-chief Parviz Sedaghat and columnist Mahsa Asadollahnead were also arrested the same day.
Pressure on the media and activists in Iran has increased since June’s 12-day war with Israel.
The free expression advocacy group PEN America said the November 3 “arrests indicate the start of a ‘new wave’ of repression intended to silence and intimidate independent and critical voices.”
“The scholars stand accused of collusion with foreign powers, despite not only criticizing domestic policies, but also opposing foreign interference through economic sanctions. In the face of mounting military tensions in the region, the writers have also criticized war, which they argue hurts ordinary Iranians,” it said.
Colleagues told CPJ that authorities did not release any information about her whereabouts or legal status.
Karimi was released on bail on November 12, according to news reports.
CPJ emailed Iran’s mission to the United Nations in New York for comment but received no response.