Repression of Newroz in Kurdistan: Security Forces Raid “Rah-e Azadi” Sufi Lodge in Saqqez, Arrest Sheikh Zahed Shahabi
On the morning of Monday, March 24, 2025, security forces affiliated with the Intelligence Department of Saqqez raided the “Rah-e Azadi” (Path of Freedom) Sufi lodge and violently arrested Sheikh Zahed Shahabi.
According to a reliable source, around 5 a.m., the security agents stormed the lodge without presenting any legal warrant. During the raid, Sheikh Shahabi’s family members were reportedly insulted and mistreated by the agents.
The same source added that Sheikh Zahed Shahabi was transferred to the Intelligence Detention Center in Saqqez following his arrest. Security agents also confiscated his mobile phone and several personal belongings.
On Friday, March 15, 2025, during the Newroz celebration at Mount Jaqel, Sheikh Zahed Shahabi delivered a message to the people, reaffirming allegiance to the martyrs and emphasizing unity and freedom. He and the participants chanted the slogan “Jin, Jiyan, Azadi” (Woman, Life, Freedom).
The ceremonial fire was lit by Sheikh Zahed Shahabi, the brother of Sheikh Azad Shahabi.
It is noteworthy that on the evening of Monday, October 15, 2024, security forces also raided the “Rah-e Azadi” lodge following the use of the word “martyr” and a Kurdish poem engraved on Sheikh Azad Shahabi’s tombstone. During that incident, several family members and dervishes were physically assaulted by security agents.
Previously, on July 18, 2024, Sheikh Azad Shahabi — a prominent Sufi figure in Kurdistan — and two of his companions, Peyman Mohammadi and Parviz Rahimpanah, were shot and killed by unidentified armed men inside the lodge in Saqqez.
Kurdpa has published a special interview titled “Why did the Islamic Republic feel the need to physically eliminate Sheikh Azad Shahabi?” featuring insights from a close associate of the late Sheikh.
The report explores claims by supporters of Sheikh Azad regarding the regime’s broader agenda to create division and incite conflict among the people in the aftermath of the killings.
