Saqqez and Divandarreh shut down as security forces deploy on third anniversary of Jina Amini’s death

Hengaw – Tuesday, September 16, 2025

On the third anniversary of the state killing of Jina Amini and the launch of the Woman, Life, Freedom (Jin, Jiyan, Azadi) movement, residents of Saqqez, Amini’s hometown, staged a citywide strike. Armed security forces were deployed across the city and along the roads leading to Aichi Cemetery, where Amini is buried, in an apparent attempt to deter public gatherings. Reports also indicated a simultaneous strike in Divandarreh.

According to information obtained by Hengaw Organization for Human Rights, shop owners in both cities shut their businesses on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, to mark the anniversary of Amini’s death in state custody.

Videos reviewed by Hengaw show entrances to Aichi Cemetery blocked by large numbers of Islamic Republic forces, preventing access to the site.

Security forces also patrolled Saqqez, creating a heavily militarized atmosphere as military helicopters circled overhead. In the days leading up to the anniversary, authorities reportedly released water from the Cheragh Veis dam into the Cheme Saqqez riverbed to obstruct alternative routes to Amini’s grave.

Hengaw noted that the strikes in Saqqez and Divandarreh, particularly in Saqqez, appeared to be spontaneous, with no public call from political or civil groups.