To the Esteemed Leaders of International Sports Federations, Committees, and Human Rights Bodies:

We, the undersigned athletes, coaches, trainers, and members of the global sporting community, write to convey our profound concern regarding credible reports of systematic persecution of athletes and sports professionals in Iran. These reports include allegations of arbitrary arrest, enforced disappearance, torture, unjust prosecution, and execution of prominent members of the sporting community.

We are deeply troubled by indications that, in recent months, such actions have intensified. Targeting well-known athletes—individuals who serve as role models and sources of inspiration for younger generations—not only endangers their fundamental rights but also undermines the integrity, neutrality, and humanitarian values that international sport seeks to uphold.

Accordingly, we respectfully call upon international sports organizations and governing bodies to:

• Conduct thorough and independent reviews of the situation affecting athletes and sports professionals in Iran.
• Take appropriate and proportionate measures within their statutes and disciplinary frameworks to uphold human rights standards.
• Advocate for the immediate protection, due process rights, and release of detained athletes and sports figures.
• Use all available mechanisms to ensure that participation in international sport aligns with universally recognized human rights principles.

We submit this appeal in the spirit of solidarity with athletes everywhere; and with confidence in your commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of the global sporting community.

Please view this link (click right to view English text): 124 Athletes Killed

Respectfully,

MEHRAN EISAZADEH

Originally from Tehran SPORT: Grandmaster 8th Dan, in Taekwondo; International Taekwondo Referee; Member of Taekwondo Hall of Fame (USA); Silver Medalist, World Masters Games. DEGREES: B. Sc., in Computer Science & English Linguistics (Oslo Univ.); B. A., in Upper Secondary Education in English; M. A., in English Linguistics (Göteborg Univ.). Fluent in six (6) languages. CAREER: IT Management, Education (English); as well as, Taekwondo Club Founder, Chairman & Head Instructor.