Iranian authorities have published a list of around 400 individuals accused of being «supporters of the enemy,» including national team football captain Zahra Ghanbari, whose assets have reportedly been seized.
The move comes months after Ghanbari and her teammates staged a silent protest by refusing to sing the national anthem during a match in Australia. The act drew sharp criticism from Iranian media, which labelled the players «traitors» at the time.
According to reports, the government has frozen bank accounts and confiscated property belonging to those named on the list. The crackdown targets a mix of public figures, including athletes, actors and media personalities, as well as individuals linked to foreign-based Persian-language outlets.
The list follows heightened tensions after recent military strikes involving Israel and the United States, which Iranian officials say prompted stronger measures against perceived collaborators.
Ghanbari had initially sought refuge in Australia with several teammates amid fears of reprisals. However, she later returned to Iran after reportedly facing pressure related to threats against her family. Authorities had publicly assured that returning players would not face punishment.
The latest asset seizures appear to contradict those assurances and have raised concerns among human rights observers about escalating pressure on dissenting voices.
Other prominent figures named include actors and musicians, though the primary focus of the crackdown is said to be individuals associated with overseas media organisations critical of the Iranian government.
The case highlights ongoing tensions in Iran over political dissent, freedom of expression and the treatment of high-profile figures who challenge state narratives.
