Steel workers in Iran chant in front of the office of Khamenei’s rep: “Our enemy is right here…”
On 3rd December 2018, striking workers of the Steel National Group of Ahvaz and members of the public protested again.
The assembly took place in front of the provincial governor’s office in Ahvaz and then masses of striking workers moved towards the city center.
On the way, members of the public joined the protest and showed their solidarity with the workers in different ways.
“Our enemy is right here, it’s a lie that it’s in the USA” the protesters chanted in front of the office of Mr Jazayeri, the representative of Ali Khamenei in Khuzestan province. The popular slogan shows the people’s objection to the fact that the leaders of the Islamic Republic of Iran have used their issues with the US as an excuse to impose poverty on the people. There, the workers and the people also chanted “Our country is a place for thieves like nowhere else in the world” and “Neither the government nor the state care about the people!”.
The workers stressed the importance of unity, the release of the imprisoned workers and their determination to get their rights.
Rouhani come down!” Retired teachers in Iran protest in front of Rouhani’s office
On 2nd December 2018, over 150 retired teachers from different cities in Iran gathered in front of the office of Hassan Rouhani, president of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and chanted “Rouhani come down!”
The retired teachers held their assembly to protest against poverty, high prices and the gap between the rich and poor.
“Livlihood, health, our inalienable rights”, “Inflation, high prices, answer Rouhani!”, “No society’s ever seen such injustice”, “If it wasn’t for us, you wouldn’t be up there”, “Rouhani come down!”
these and other slogans were chanted to say no to the inhuman conditions that have been imposed on the retired teachers.
Mr Khorsandi, one of the retired teachers, read a statement that all attendees then signed.
An hour into the protest, while they were chanting “We will return if we don’t get an answer”, a car belonging to the regime’s forces turned into the street and ran over one of the protesters, Ms Yahzadpour. The protesters rushed to her aid and stopped the car.
Strike of unpaid workers of Welding Industry of Takestan, Iran, continues for the third day
On 3st December 2018, workers of Welding Industry of Takestan in Qazvin province, Iran, continued their strike for the 3rd day over non-payment of their wages.
5 months of unpaid wages has put the workers under lots of financial pressure and they are left with no option but to strike as the employers refuse to pay their wages.
Other issues that the workers protest against are non-payment of their insurance, failure to deliver a copy of their contract, one month contracts and ignoring the issues the workers face.
Workers of Ball Bearing factory in Tabriz, Iran, protest over unpaid wages
On 3rd December 2018, workers of Ball Bearing Factory in Tabriz held an assembly and protested over unpaid wages.
The workers who have not been paid for four months gathered for the second consecutive day to protest.
Non-payment of wages of workers of different industries in Iran is widespread and many strikes and protests are happening to protest against it.
Hospital staff protest for the 30th time in Karaj, Iran
On 2st December 2018, over 300 staff of the Imam Khomeini Hospital in Karaj in Tehran province, Iran, protested for the 30th time.
The hospital staff who have not been paid for 12 months continue to protest as the threat of losing their jobs looms over their head.
The hospital is being sold to the private sector and none of the contracts has been renewed. It is unclear what is going to happen to the hospital and no one answers the staff.
Recently, hospital workers, patients and families of veterans marched towards the Islamic Majles (Parliament) to protest against the uncertainty and the indifference of the health services.
Women on the front-line of steelworkers’ protest in Iran – “We are children of the workers, we stand by you”
On 4th December 2018, striking workers of the Steel National Group of Ahvaz in Khuzestan province, Iran, marched through the streets of the city on the 25th day of their strike.
The striking workers and the people of Ahvaz chanted slogans and delivered speeches in front of various government offices in the city.
A significant number of members of the public was present in the protest. The people passionately supported speeches made by the workers and chanted slogans against oppression, injustice, embezzlement, corruption, against the propaganda machine of the regime and for the release of the arrested workers – specifically workers of Haft Tapeh.
In the protest, women were on the front-line with banners that read “We are children of the workers, we stand by you”.
“We will get our rights from the mafia. The mafia will be destroyed by the workers. The steelworkers of the National Group are making history. We will get our rights.” said Karim Siahi, one of the steelworkers in the protest. The protesters responded to him with loud chants of “We stand, we die, but we will get our rights!”
The 4000 workers of the Steel National Group of Ahvaz along with members of the public expressed their undivided support for the sugar cane workers of Haft Tapeh. One of their urgent demands is the immediate and unconditional release of Esmaeil Bakhshi, Sepideh Gholiyan and Ali Nejati.
University students in Tehran, Iran, protest in support of striking steelworkers of Ahvaz
On 4th December 2018, students of Amirkabir University of Tehran, Iran, held an assembly in support of the striking steelworkers.
The students chanted slogans and held banners against the imposition of poverty on society and for the release of all imprisoned workers and students.
Basij forces in the university tried to stop the students but the protesters only got louder and continued to protest.
Coordinating Council of Teachers’ Association of Iran support steel and sugar cane workers
On 4th December 2018, the Coordinating Council of Teachers’ Association of Iran released a statement in solidarity with sugar cane workers of Haft Tapeh and steelworkers of Ahvaz.
In the statement the Coordinating Council supports the workers as well as their demands, including the involvement of the workers in the running of the factory.
The Coordinating Council also strongly condemns the oppression of independent workers’ organisations and specifically the arrest of the worker activists Esmaeil Bakhshi and Ali Nejati.
Emaeil Bakhshi and Sepideh Gholiyan are in critical condition
The families of Sepideh Gholiyan and Esmaeil Bakhshi have managed to briefly visit them. Both have been seriously injured and are under physical and psychological torture.
They are being kept in solitary confinement and are even denied knowledge of the time of day.
Sepideh Gholiyan has lost lots of weight. She felt pain when her mother hugged her.
Esmaeil Bakhshi, who was in a critical condition, smiled when he heard about all the support he had received.
The report was released on the Telegram channel of Haft Tapeh workers. It ends with the condemnation of the treatment of Esmaeil and Sepideh and demands their immediate and unconditional release. The workers blame the government for the torture, abuse and assault and hold the heads of the judiciary of the Islamic Republic of Iran accountable for their well-being.
The workers are deeply worried about the life of Esmaeil and Sepideh and call on all workers of Haft Tapeh, Iran and the world, as well as on all international labour organisations and relevant media to do what they can to free Esmaeil Bakhshi, Sepideh Gholiyan and Ali Nejati (another workers’ representative and leader).
Steel workers in Iran chant in front of the office of Khamenei’s rep: “Our enemy is right here…”
On 3rd December 2018, striking workers of the Steel National Group of Ahwaz and members of the public protested again.
The assembly took place in front of the provincial governor’s office in Ahwaz and then masses of striking workers moved towards the city centre.
On the way, members of the public joined the protest and showed their solidarity with the workers in different ways.
“Our enemy is right here, it’s a lie that it’s in the USA” the protesters chanted in front of the office of Mr Jazayeri, the representative of Khamenei in Khuzestan province. The popular slogan shows the people’s objection to the fact that the leaders of the Islamic Republic of Iran have used their issues with the US as an excuse to impose poverty on the people. There, the workers and the people also chanted “Our country is a place for thieves like nowhere else in the world” and “Neither the government nor the state care about the people!”.
The workers stressed the importance of unity, the release of the imprisoned workers and their determination to get their rights.
Striking steel workers in Iran say “Our first demand is the release of the arrested workers.”
On 2nd December 2018, striking workers of the Steel National Group of Ahwaz held an assembly in front of the provincial governor’s office where families of the workers and members of the public joined the protest.
One of the leaders of the workers, Mohamad Al Meisam, said in his speech at the assembly: “All the workers are one and part of the same body, be it Haft Tapeh or Steel or workers of elsewhere. The workers will not leave the streets as long as these conditions exist and capitalists are supported. We are not going to retreat, the workers have the power to get their rights. We will prove that. Our first demand is the release of the arrested workers. Haft Tapeh prisoners must be freed!” The striking workers and the people chanted slogans for the freedom of the imprisoned workers.
A worker from Haft Tapeh who attended the assembly also delivered a speech and emphasised the unity of the workers and the fact that they suffer the same problems and share the same fate. This was followed by loud chants of “Steel, Haft Tapeh, Unite, Unite”.
The workers are in discussions to form their own Workers’ Council to be directly involved in their working conditions and affairs.
Striking steel workers in Iran say “Our first demand is the release of the arrested workers.”
On 2nd December 2018, striking workers of the Steel National Group of Ahwaz held an assembly in front of the provincial governor’s office where families of the workers and members of the public joined the protest.
One of the leaders of the workers, Mohamad Al Meisam, said in his speech at the assembly: “All the workers are one and part of the same body, be it Haft Tapeh or Steel or workers of elsewhere. The workers will not leave the streets as long as these conditions exist and capitalists are supported. We are not going to retreat, the workers have the power to get their rights. We will prove that. Our first demand is the release of the arrested workers. Haft Tapeh prisoners must be freed!” The striking workers and the people chanted slogans for the freedom of the imprisoned workers.
A worker from Haft Tapeh who attended the assembly also delivered a speech and emphasised the unity of the workers and the fact that they suffer the same problems and share the same fate. This was followed by loud chants of “Steel, Haft Tapeh, Unite, Unite”.
The workers are in discussions to form their own Workers’ Council to be directly involved in their working conditions and affairs.
Construction corporation workers in Iran go on strike over unpaid wages
On 28th November 2018, contract workers of Taloon Corporation, a facilitator of building projects and tunnel constructions, in Tehran, Iran, entered the third day of their strike.
The 170 workers decided to go on strike as the employers failed to pay their wages and New Year bonuses.
The workers were left with no option but to go on strike as negotiations with employers failed.
The non-payment of wages is widespread in Iran and many workers suffer from the consequences.
Municipality workers in Khorramabad province, Iran, hold assembly over unpaid wages
On 28th November 2018, Green Space workers of Khorramabad municipality in Iran held an assembly to object to non-payment of their wages.
The workers haven’t been paid for some months and struggle to make ends meet as a result.
The workers don’t buy the excuse that “there is no money” and can’t wait for the constant promises of the employers to come true.
Municipality workers in other provinces in Iran have been challenging the issue of non-payment of wages too.
Municipality workers in Khuzestan province in Iran hold assembly to protest unpaid wages
On 27th November 2018, a large group of municipality workers of Abadan city in Khuzestan province, Iran, held an assembly in front of the municipality office over delay in the payment of their wages.
Over 2000 workers of the municipality and its contractors suffer from non-payment of their wages and they have been disappointed by the employers who keep delaying paying them their wages.
The employers tried to silence the workers by giving them a small amount of money but in the assembly the workers demanded payment of all of their unpaid wages.
Non-payment of wages in Iran have forced many workers and their families into destitution.
Municipality workers in Tehran, Iran, hold assembly to protest unpaid wages
On 27th November 2018, contract workers of the municipality of Tehran, Iran, held an assembly to protest non-payment of their wages.
The workers gathered in front of the Islamic Council building and demanded payment of their wages.
Municipality workers in some other provinces as well as many workers of other industries in Iran suffer from non-payment of wages that have forced many into destitution and sparked many strikes and protests.
Petrochemical Polymer workers of Kermanshah province, Iran, protest low wages
On 27th November 2018, contract workers of Petrochemical Polymer in Kermanshah, Iran, held an assembly to protest their low wages.
Considering the high prices of goods and high inflation, the workers struggle as they find it impossible to make ends meet with the low wages they receive.
Contract workers of other industries have also been protesting against the role that contractors play in the unfair deals and contracts the workers are given.
Striking workers in Zanjan province, Iran, force employer to re-employ 19 expelled workers
On 27th November 2018, workers of Jahan Vegetable Oil corporation in Zanjan province, Iran, halted their 12-day long strike.
After 12 days of strike, the employer was forced to pay the unpaid wages of the workers, re-employ the 19 expelled workers and promised to make sure that the production lines are not shut.
The workers accepted to hold their strike and wait for the employer to fulfil the promises. The workers made it clear that they will resume the strike if the employer fails to fulfil the promises.
Steel workers in Ghazvin, Iran, hold assembly in solidarity with striking sugar cane and steel workers
On 27th November 2018, workers of Aryan Steel of Buin Zahra in Ghazvin province, Iran, gathered in front of the city governor’s office in support of striking workers of Haft Tapeh (sugar cane workers) and Steel National Group of Ahwaz.
The workers held a banner and raised placards in support of the striking workers and for the release of the arrested workers’ representative and leader, Esmaeil Bakhshi.
“Free the imprisoned teachers or else!” Iran’s Teachers’ Organisation issues ultimatum against government
On 27th November 2018, the Coordinating Council of Teachers’ Association in Iran released a statement in which they issued an ultimatum to the government for the release of the imprisoned teachers and called for an end to the persecution of teachers.
In the statement that gives an ultimatum of one week, the council emphasises the following urgent demands:
Immediate and unconditional release of all detained teachers
Issuing an order to prevent persecution of teachers
Dismissal of the judicial cases against the teachers
In the previous strike of teachers in October, the authorities arrested seven teachers: Mohamadreza Ramazanzadeh, Hosein Ramazanpour, Ali Forutan, Omid Shah Mohamadi, Pirouz Nami, Ali Krooshat and Mohamdali Zahmatkesh.
One of the main campaigns of teachers in Iran is for the release of all detained teachers and revocation of all security and prison sentences against workers, teachers and activists.
Esmail Abdi, Mohamad Habibi, Mahmood Beheshti, and Ruhollah Mardani are the teachers who have been in prison for a long time. The campaigning teachers keep the public informed about the situation of the imprisoned teachers and organise visits of the detainees’ families to show their solidarity with the dissident teachers.
Teachers also demand free, quality education for all, an increase of teachers’ wages to above the poverty line, fair contracts and an end to work pressure on teachers.
In the ultimatum, the council announces that if nothing is done to address the urgent demands, they will be left with no option but to go on strike and call on the families of students to join their protest, as they all share the same issues.
“Stop the deception! Shame on you!” – sugar cane workers tell representatives of Islamic Republic of Iran
On 1st December 2018, striking sugar cane workers of Haft Tapeh in Khuzestan province, Iran, continued to protest on the 27th day of their strike.
Under pressure of the workers, a representative of the general director of the corporation and Reza Madadi, deputy CEO of Haft Tapeh corporation, were forced to attend the workers’ assembly at the complex.
The corporation’s representatives tried to calm the workers with promises but the agitated workers said that they have already announced that the release of Esmaeil Bakhshi, the leader and elected representative of their council, Ali Nejati, secretary of their union, and Sepideh Gholiyan, student and activist, is a precondition to any talks.
At the same time, another group of striking workers along with members of the public were protesting in front of the governor’s office of Shush city. Despite the presence of armed forces, the workers and the people appeared united and strong. They chanted “Free imprisoned workers” and other slogans against injustice and in support of Esmaeil Bakhshi.
Whilst the workers fight to get rid of the private sector and run the corporation under supervision of the Workers’ Council, the state media reports that the corporation’s management is changing. The workers are determined to stick to their demands and decisions of their council and continue to protest.
The workers exposed attempts by the regime to divide the workers through regime agents bringing banners to the protests that show the heads of the Islamic Republic.
The striking workers say: “Bakhshi is our flag in our gatherings! As we have been chanting: imprisoned workers must be freed! Bakhshi and Nejati must be released!”
“How shameful of you to try to visit Esmaeil’s family! You can’t void Esmail! Stop the deception!”, the striking workers responded to another attempt by the authorities to break the unity of the workers, as a member of the Islamic Majles (parliament) and representatives of Student Basij tried to visit the family of Esmaeil Bakhshi.
Many more have sent in their messages of support and solidarity with the workers of Haft Tapeh and for the release of Esmaeil Bakhshi and the others. Mina Ahadi of the Worker-communist Party of Iran has also started an international campaign for the release of Ismaeil Bakhshi.
Iran’s sugar cane workers’ best response to propaganda and interrogations
Striking sugar cane workers share pictures of the corporation on strike and send their representative to the assembly of the Steel National Group of Ahwaz to take the strike and protest to another level as the regime gets more desperate.
80 international workers’ organisations write protest letters to Ali Khamenei.
26 lawyers release a statement in support of the workers.
University students in Tehran hold assembly in support of the striking workers and their demands.
On 2nd December 2018, striking sugar cane workers of Haft Tapeh in Khuzestan province, Iran, continued their strike and responded to rumours of the end of the strike that the regimes’ media spread. The workers shared pictures of different sections of the workplace to show that the strike is still ongoing.
The workers responded to reports that state media broadcast about the strike. Unsurprisingly, BBC Farsi also echoed the regime’s propaganda on its Telegram channel. BBC Farsi also held the mic in front of the Islamic Regime’s representatives who said that the news about the torture of Esmaeil Bakhshi is a lie. They then shared it on their Telegram channel!
The workers held their assembly in the corporation and emphasised that their strike is not about their wages and a change of the general director of the corporation. Their demand is the expulsion of the embezzlers and the running of the corporation under supervision of their Workers’ Council.
In the assembly, the workers pointed out that whilst Esmaeil Bakhsi, elected representative and leader of their council, Sepideh Gholiyan, activist and student, and Ali Nejati, secretary of their union, are in custody, the corporation’s corrupt directors are still in their place and non of the workers’ demands has been met.
The workers pledged to continue their strike and protest until all of their demands are met.
At the same time, the striking sugar cane workers sent their representative to the protest of the Steel National Group of Ahwaz where he delivered a speech emphasising the unity of the workers, the fact that they suffer the same problems and that they are one. The striking workers who had gathered in front of the provincial governor’s office of Ahwaz welcomed the speech and chanted slogans stressing the unity of the workers.
According to reports, on 30th November 2018, two worker activists fromthe commerce department of the Haft Tapeh corporation were called in to the office of the intelligence services of Sush city. Mohamad Omidvar and his wife, Shahin Pishahang, were interrogated for three hours.
The workers regard the interrogation as another attempt to intimidate the workers and to break the strike.
Support for the striking workers is pouring in. The most recent: over 80 international workers’ organisations have written to Ali Khamenei to protest the treatment of the workers. 26 lawyers have released a statement in support of the workers and university students in Tehran held an assembly in solidarity with the workers.
Farzaneh Zilabi, solicitor of the Haft Tapeh workers, said that she has been denied the right to study the case of the arrested workers and that she has been denied any visit or contact with the detained workers.
“NO!” the striking steel workers respond to the authorities in Iran
On 1st December 2018, striking workers of Steel National Group of Ahwaz in Khuzestan province, Iran, held an assembly in front of the provincial governor’s office on the 22nd day of their strike.
One of the workers, Morteza Akbari, delivered a speech to address the lies that the government is spreading in order to stop the expansion of the strike and people from joining the protests. He said: “Why has the governor of the province lied about paying our wages and restarting the production lines? Why do you lie to the public? They say that two months of the unpaid wages has been paid to the workers. Have you received any wages?” the workers shouted: “NO!”. “Is it true that production lines have restarted?” “NO!”. He ended his speech with an ultimatum: “We will not enter the corporation until all of our wages are paid and all the production lines are open again. That’s our first and last word!”
The striking workers moved towards the city centre and people joined in. They chanted “Imprisoned workers must be freed!”, “Haft Tapeh prisoners must be freed!”, and other slogans against injustice, inequality and oppression.
As the authorities try different techniques, including spreading lies about the strike, the workers called for another gathering and protest on 2nd December.
Oil Refinery workers in Khuzestan province, Iran, have not been paid for five months
On 1st December 2018, workers of section 2 of Abadan Refinery in Khuzestan Province, Iran, held an assembly in front of the main office of the corporation to protest against unpaid wages. The workers have not been paid for 5 months.
The deputy provincial governor and the governor of Abadan announced that they are in discussion with the bank that owns the corporation to address the issue.
As there are ongoing protests and strikes by the workers of Steel National and Haft Tapeh, the governors are worried about more protests and strikes in the province.
Banks that own Sugar Purification Corporation in Iran fail and don’t pay workers’ wages
On 1st December 2018, workers of the Sugar Purification Corporation of Ahwaz in Khuzestan province, Iran, held an assembly in front of the provincial governor’s office to protest against the non-payment of their wages.
The workers have not been paid for 10 months and struggle to make ends meet.
The corporation that is owned by Bank Melli and Mellat Bank aren’t functioning and parts of it are suspended.
Workers of urban train project in Khuzestan province, Iran, are owed 17 months of their wages
On 1st December 2018, a group of workers of a project to build urban trains in Ahwaz in Khuzestan province, Iran, held an assembly to protest against the non-payment of their wages.
Last month, when the workers protested for the first time, the general director of the contracting company, Kayson, announced a shortage of funds but promised to pay the wages within two weeks but failed to do so.
The workers who are owed 17 months of their wages have been disappointed by the employers and started fresh protests to get their wages.
Municipality workers of Abezhdan city in Khuzestan province, Iran, strike over unpaid wages
On 1st December 2018, municipality workers of Abezhdan city in Khuzestan province, Iran, went on strike and held an assembly in front of the municipality’s offices to protest against unpaid wages.
There are several municipalities in Iran that have not paid wages to their workers. Protests against unpaid wages are on the rise.
High prices of goods and high inflation combined with unpaid wages have put the workers in a very difficult position.
Striking municipality workers of Andimeshk in Khuzestan province, Iran, clash with the police
On 1st December 2018, municipality workers of Andimeshk in Khuzestan province, Iran, went on strike and held an assembly in front of the municipality offices.
The police tried to disperse the workers but the striking workers stood their ground and at the end of the protest they decided to continue the protest if they are not paid within a day.
The workers who are forced into destitution as a result of unpaid wages have been left with no option but to protest and strike as the employer refuses to pay their wages.
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Strike is the only option for municipality workers of Sarbandar in Khuzestan province, Iran
On 1st December 2018, municipality workers of Sarbandar in Khuzestan province, Iran, went on strike to protest against unpaid wages.
The authorities have failed to fulfil their promises to pay the wages of the workers and are not open to any negotiation, so the workers are left with no option but to go on strike.
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Workers of Welding Industry of Takestan in Qazvin province, Iran, strike over unpaid wages
On 1st December 2018, workers of Welding Industry of Takestan in Qazvin province, Iran, went on strike and protested against unpaid wages.
The workers who haven’t received at least 6 months of their wages held their assembly in their workplace.
Other issues that the workers protest against is non-payment of their insurance, failure to deliver a copy of their contract, one month contracts and ignoring the issues the workers face.
Hospital staff, patients and veterans’ families protest together in Karaj, Iran
On 1st December 2018, over 300 staff of Imam Khomeini Hospital in Karaj in Tehran province, Iran, protested along with their patients.
Dialysis patients, veterans’ families and the staff protested together in the main street in front of the hospital. Unpaid wages for one year and uncertainty about the future of the hospital are the issues of the protest.
The hospital staff who have been protesting the situation for months have not received any response from the employers and owners who are selling the hospital.
After the assembly in front of the hospital, the staff, patients and the veterans’ families continued their protest in front of the Islamic Majles (Parliament).
The hospital staff has continued to work, even though their contracts have not been renewed. The staff are in danger of losing their jobs in addition to the issues they face as a result of the non-payment of their wages.
Hundreds of retirees protest in Tehran, Iran, and call on the people to join them
On 27th November 2018, hundreds of retirees gathered in front of the Office of Labour in Tehran, Iran, to pursue their demands. They chanted “Our pain is your pain, people join us!”
Armed police and security forces kept a close watch on the protestors who held up banners that reflected their demands and objections.
The retirees chanted slogans against poverty, injustice, embezzlement, corruption, low wages, gap between rich and poor, and for healthcare, security and a sustainable livelihood.
The protesters also demanded the right to organise, protest, strike and the release of all imprisoned teachers.
In the past few days, some groups of retired workers of banks in Tehran have held protests in front of the Pension Fund of Banks in Tehran in objection to low pensions.
Striking sugar cane workers in Iran: “We are all Bakhshi”, “Down with the Oppressor! Long live Workers!”
On 28th November 2018, striking sugar cane workers of Haft Tapeh in Khuzestan province, Iran, held an assembly and protested on the 24th day of their strike.
Standing in front of the governor’s office in Shush city, they demanded the immediate release of Ismail Bakhshi, their leader and elected representative of the Workers’ Council of Haft Tapeh, and Sepideh Gholiyan, student and activist, who was arrested along with Mr Bakhshi.
After the assembly, the workers marched through the streets of Shush. Many held placards with pictures of Ismail Bakhsi that read “We are all Bakhshi”.
The workers of Haft Tapeh demand an end to embezzlement by the private sector in their workplace and that the management of the corporation will be put under supervision of the Workers’ Council.
More organisations and activists are supporting the striking workers of Haft Tapeh and demand the release of Ismail Bakhshi. The most recent to join the long list of supporters are:
Steel workers of Aryan Corporation in Booin Zahra in Ghazvin province, who gathered in front of the governor’s office to support the striking workers of Haft Tapeh and the steel workers of Ahwaz.
Referees of the Shush football team shared a picture showing a banner that reads “We are all from Haft Tapeh”.
Behnam Ebrahim Zadeh, a well-known workers’ activist also shared a picture showing a banner that reads “Ismail Bakhshi and Sepideh Gholiyan must be freed”.
The Teachers’ Union of England has sent a letter of objection to the authorities of the Islamic Republic of Iran, demanding the immediate release of Ismail Bakhshi.
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Fired-up masses of steel workers and people in Iran chant “Down with the Oppressor! Long live Workers!”
On 28th November 2018, striking workers of the Steel National Group of Ahwaz in Khuzestan province, Iran, held a massive protest in Ahwaz city.
The striking workers gathered in front of the provincial governor’s office in Ahwaz where Karim Siahi, one of the workers’ representatives, delivered a passionate speech and stressed the importance of fighting against injustice.
The fired-up masses of workers and people chanted “Down with the Oppressor! Long live Workers!” and crossed Naderi Bridge towards the streets of Ahwaz city where more people joined them.
The protestors chanted slogans against poverty, injustice, oppression, and for the release of the arrested workers. “We, the steel workers, we fight, we fight, against injustice and oppression.”, “We are steel workers, we pull out the roots of oppression”, “Imprisoned workers must be freed!”.
At the assembly in front of the provincial governor’s office, retired staff of the University of Medical Sciences were also holding an assembly.
Striking steel workers in Iran say “Vigilant workers loath exploitation”
On 27th November 2018, the 18th day of their strike, the workers of the Steel National Group of Ahwaz held an assembly in front of the provincial governor’s office of Khuzestan in Ahwaz, Iran.
Karim Siahi, one of the workers, delivered a speech and pointed out that the authorities are not there to solve anything and that the “workers have rightful demands and stand up for their rights”. He outlined the workers’ demands and addressed the authorities: “You can’t stop us!”
Another worker, Gharib Havizavi, said in his speech:
“I’m a worker and I am telling you that you are wrong to think that we will keep quiet. You are wrong to think that you can break our lines. You can’t buy us out. We will not leave the streets until we expose and disgrace you.”
A woman, a member of the public, also gave a speech, emphasising the importance of unity and urged people to join the workers.
The workers cheered for the speakers and supported their statements by chanting slogans.
The armed forces, who were gathered in the courtyard of the provincial governor’s office, were there to stop the workers from taking the protest to the streets, but they were afraid of facing the determined and united workers who were chanting “All workers say: down with the oppressor!” and then marched on.
The masses of striking workers and people crossed Naderi Bridge and went to the city centre of Ahwaz.
The sensational protest made a strong statement in the city of Ahwaz. The workers and the people chanted: “We are workers of steel, we pull out the roots of oppression”, “We are the National Group, we stand to the end”, “We stand, we die, but we get our rights”, “Free imprisoned workers!”.
The workers carried a big banner that read: “Vigilant workers loathe exploitation”
Workers and the people march together in Iran – Steel workers continue to strike
On 26th November 2018, workers of the Steel National Group of Ahwaz in Khuzestan province, Iran, held the 17th day of their strike and marched through the streets of Ahwaz.
Despite a heavy presence of anti-riot police and armed forces, the workers marched through the barriers and continued their protest. Members of the public joined in, too.
The attendance of families of the workers encouraged many women to join the march.
The workers and members of the public marching together was a scene of unity and an opportunity for all to chant their shared demands: unity; release of imprisoned workers; no to injustice, oppression and abjection.
In response to the presence of armed forces on the street and threats of dismissal of the workers, the protestors also chanted slogans to show that they are neither intimidated nor afraid: “Neither threats nor prison, no use”, “Khuzestan rather dies than to accept abjection”, “We steel workers, against injustice and oppression, we fight, we fight”.
The workers announced that they will continue the strike.
Striking sugar cane workers in Iran stand by their representatives and organisations
On 26th November 2018, sugar cane workers of Haft Tapeh in Khuzestan province, Iran, continued their strike and gathered in front of the governor’s office of Shush city to protest.
At the assembly the workers stood by their Representatives’ Assembly and their Syndicate, in response to the former general director of the Haft Tapeh Corporation saying that they were “illegal”.
The workers stressed their demand for the immediate and unconditional release of Esmail Bakhshi, leader and elected representative of the workers’ council, and Sepideh Gholiyan, university student and activist, who are in custody.
In the assembly, Yousef Bahmani, one of the representatives of the workers, delivered a speech and condemned the condescending attitude of the contractor towards the workers.
The striking workers marched through the streets of Shush city where members of the public joined their protest to vocalise their shared objections and demands.
The solicitor of the Haft Tapeh workers, Ms Farzaneh Ailabi, also addressed the threats of the general director of the corporation who claimed that the Representatives’ Assembly and the Syndicate are illegal. She said that the Syndicate was formed in 1974 and the last election in 2008 is still legitimate and legal, which was also recognised by the International Labour Organisation. Therefore the government is obliged to accept the Representatives’ Assembly and the Syndicate.
More messages of support for Haft Tapeh workers have come and more petitions are being circulated. 500 activists have signed a petition to start a campaign; the Teachers’ Association of Tehran has released a statement in defence of Haft Tapeh and Steel Workers, and for the release of Sepideh Gholiyan; in Sanandaj, a group of workers, their families and many others have sent in their messages of solidarity with workers of Haft Tapeh.
Sugar cane workers in Iran announce that Ismail Bakhshi’s release is precondition for any talks and negotiations
On 25th November 2018, the 21st day of their strike, the sugar cane workers of Haft Tapeh in Khuzestan province, Iran, first held an assembly in front of the governor’s office in Shush city and then continued the protest towards the city centre with chants of “Free imprisoned workers” and “Steel, Haft Tapeh, Happy Unity”. The workers have said that Ismail Bakhshi’s release is the precondition for any talks and negotiations.
Some members of the public joined the protest and some showed solidarity with the striking workers by bringing them food and drinks.
The authorities have tried to break up the strike and prevent members of the public and steel workers from joining the sugar cane workers.
The authorities and directors of the corporation have threatened supervisors of different sections of the corporation with expulsion if they refuse to come back to work. The workers, however, have stood firm on their demands which includes the release of their leader and representative, Ismail Bakhshi and Sepideh Gholyan, a student and activist.
The workers of Haft Tapeh have received unprecedented support from different sections of society.
Adding to a long list of supporters, on 24 November 2018, a group of workers of the Industrial Estate of Jaban and Khoramdasht and contractor workers of the Ministry of Oil Industry sent their message of solidarity with Haft Tapeh workers. Miners of Taravartan in Abbas Abad in Isfahan province wrote on the walls in their neighbourhood: “Free Ismail Bakhshi”. Farangis Mazlum, mother of Soheil Arabi, a political prisoner, shared a video in which she holds a placard that reads “We are all from Haft Tapeh” and declared her and her son’s support for the workers of Haft Tapeh.
Latest news about Sepideh Gholiyan who was arrested in the Haft Tapeh protests
Sepideh Gholiyan, 23, activist and university student, was arrested on 18th November 2018 during the sugar cane workers’ strike in Haft Tapeh and is still in custody.
Sepideh is from Ahwaz in Khuzestan province, Iran. She was beaten in the Shush detention centre and later moved to Ahwaz. In a phone conversation with her family on 20th November she said that she is going to be in custody for one month, although she hasn’t been given formal notification.
Striking steel workers face armed forces in Iran: “We defend ourselves. Go and chase the mafia!”
On 24th November 2018, workers of the Steel National Group of Ahwaz in Khuzestan province, Iran, entered the 12th day of their strike.
The striking workers held their assembly in front of the provincial governor’s office and chanted “We, Steel Workers against Oppression and Injustice. We fight!”, “Government, Mafia, Happy Unity!”, “Workers rather die than to accept abjection”. They then marched towards the city centre.
The armed forces confronted the workers at Naderi Bridge but couldn’t stop the determined and united masses of striking workers.
The armed forces couldn’t hold their lines and once the workers had passed through their lines, they attacked the workers from behind and injured some of them.
The workers came to the aid of their colleagues and called on the people to support them. After the clashes, the workers went ahead as planned and continued their protest.
Karim Syahi, one of the representatives of the Steel National Group of Ahwaz, delivered a speech in which he reflected on the event and addressed the armed forces: “We don’t want you to defend the city. We defend ourselves. Go and chase the mafia! Go and pull out your batons for those who have imposed misery on the workers, not at me, who is fighting for my right!” The workers confirmed by cheering.
Striking sugar cane workers in Iran continue to protest as Ministry of Labour spreads rumour of end of strike
On 24th November 2018, striking sugar cane workers of Haft Tapeh in Khuzestan province, Iran, entered the 20th day of their strike.
The deputy minister of the Ministry of Labour, Mr Yavari, spread the rumour that the strike had ended and the workers’ demands had been dealt with. The response from the workers was another day of assembly and loud protests in front of the governor’s office.
The workers insist on their demands, including the immediate and unconditional release of their elected representative and leader, Ismail Bakhshi, as well as the student and activist, Sepideh Gholian; dismissal of all security cases against the workers; expulsion of the current directors of the corporation whose embarrassing deeds are evident; management of the corporation under supervision of the workers’ council; payment of all of their unpaid wages.
Messages of support for the striking workers of Haft Tapeh keep pouring in.
Determination and vigilance of striking workers of Haft Tapeh in Iran inspire many
Some key points with regard to the strike of Haft Tapeh sugar cane workers were made in a statement that the Syndicate of Haft Tapeh workers released on 22nd November 2018.
The Minister of Labour held a meeting with some of the workers’ representatives at the governor’s office whilst workers and members of the public were protesting outside.
The government representative tried to put an end to the strike by paying them some of the wages the workers are owed. At the same time government agents in Shush city and state media outlets have been trying to reduce objections and demands of the workers to the matter of unpaid wages alone.
The workers’ response to the “cheap and insulting” behaviour of the authorities was firm. The workers stated “No negotiation until all detained workers are free!”
The rightful workers ,who have broad public support and many national and international organisations on their side, aren’t backing down and stand by all of their demands and decisions of their workers’ council.
The statement emphasises the “abolishment of private ownership” and other demands including payment of unpaid wages. It also exposes the attempts by the authorities to derail the strike and wear down the striking workers.
Vigilance and resilience of Haft Tapeh workers has inspired many in Iran and abroad; messages of support are pouring in.
The most recent messages of support for the striking workers of Haft Tapeh:
Association of Taxi Drivers of Mazandaran province
Association of Bus Drivers of Qom
Association of Truck Drivers of Yazd province
Association of Drivers and Truckers of Bandar Abbas province
Trade Union of Iran-Turkey Transits
A group of Iran-Italy Transits Trade Union
Urban Transport of Tehran and the Suburbs
Union of Leased Drivers of Tabriz
Union of Leased Drivers of Gas Corporation
A group of Lawyers of Tehran and Karaj
Fire Department of Qazvin
Drivers of Heavy Machinery of Arak Mines
Association to defend Drivers in Yasuj
Fire Department of Shush and the Suburbs
Association of Driving Schools of Iran
Union of Farming Machinery of Shiraz province
Workers of Paper Industry Group
Workers of Telecommunication Corporation
A group of Drivers in Isfahan
The Italian General Confederation of Labour
Steel National Group of Ahwaz
A group of Political Prisoners from Rajaie Shahr Prison in Karaj
A group of Justice-Seeking Teachers
In addition to the list above, 30 associations and unions of construction workers, 200 well-known activists, and 30 other organisations and unions have sent in their messages of solidarity with the striking workers of Haft Tapeh.
“No negotiation until all detained workers are free!” Sugar Cane workers tell the authorities
On 22nd November 2018, sugar cane workers of Haft Tapeh in Khuzestan province, Iran, held their 18th day of strike in front of the governor’s office and in the streets of Shush city.
Some of the representatives of the striking workers had a meeting with the Minister of Labour who promised to pay some of their unpaid wages, but the workers insisted that even if all the unpaid wages are paid there will be “no negotiation until all detained workers are free!”
To ease the pressure, the authorities were forced to free three of the detained workers. Mohamad Khanifar, Moslem Armand and Seyed Fazel Khanifar were released. However, the striking workers insist on the release of all arrested workers. Ismail Bakhshi and Sepideh Gholiani (student activist and journalist) are still in custody.
The news about the release of the workers and the offer from the authorities was released in a statement by the Syndicate of Workers of Haft Tapeh that also reported that there have been some attempts to derail the strike. The statement mentions attempts to reduce the workers’ demands to the single issue of unpaid wages and lists all workers’ demands, including the matter of ownership of the corporation and the release of the workers’ leaders and representatives.
The striking workers have received support from many organisations in Iran and abroad. A list of the organisations will be published soon.
Mother of imprisoned worker “I will come with you to block the roads” – Haft Tapeh, Iran
On 21st November 2018, sugar cane workers of Haft Tapeh in Khuzestan province, Iran, held their 16th day of strike with a strong presence in front of the governor’s office of Shush city.
“We are not afraid of prison nor of execution” said Karim Siahi, one of the workers’ representatives, regarding the arrest of their colleagues.
In this protest, groups of teachers, students and merchants held up their banners in defence of the striking workers and joined together in chanting “Free imprisoned workers!”
A group of university students from Chamran University of Tehran joined the workers to support the struggle. The workers welcomed the students and chanted “Tehran students, thank you, thank you!”
Another uplifting moment in today’s protest was when groups of women and families of the workers joined the protest with their banners. “Women of Haft Tapeh, thank you, thank you!”
In the assembly, the striking workers delivered speeches and highlighted their issues including non-payment of wages. They stated that Esmail Bakhshi has been speaking for them and he and the other imprisoned workers must be freed.
There were many banners with pictures of the imprisoned workers and with slogans that emphasised everyone’s determination to claim their rights and to free the workers.
The solicitor of the imprisoned workers informed the assembly that the authorities have decided that the imprisoned workers and activists, Emael Bakhshi, Mohamad Khanifar, Moslem Armand, Seyed Hosein Fazeli and Sepideh Gholian will remain in custody until further notice.
The mother of Moslem Armand, one of the imprisoned workers’ representative, said “If they are not freed by tomorrow noon, I will come with you to block the roads.”
Steel workers in Iran leave messenger of the labour ministry speechless. The people join striking workers
On 21st November 2018, workers of the Steel National Group of Ahwaz in Khuzestan province, Iran, held an assembly in front of the provincial governor’s office in Ahwaz on their 10th day of strike.
Due to pressure from the workers, the Ministry of Labour was forced to send its representative to the workers’ assembly where he was told by Mehdi Almeisam, the workers’ representative:
“The Ministry of Labour is a ministry that has to be behind workers. We have been in the streets for 28 days, shouted and demanded our rights, they arrested us and our cases are open in court. Haft Tapeh workers are in custody. Mr Minister of labour and welfare, what kind of labour is it? What kind of welfare is it? How should I as a worker feel that you are behind me? [to other workers he says] Do you feel that they support you? [the workers say] No. No. Is this ministry of labour the ministry of workers or capitalists? Are you behind the bourgeois and capitalists or workers? Why should I have to be on the streets for my rights? Why should I be persecuted there? [the minister says:] When the revolution happened… [the workers cut him off by speaking at the same time]
After the assembly, the workers marched towards the city centre where more people joined the protest as the workers delivered speeches and reflected on the issues that people of Khuzestan suffer from: injustice, poverty and discrimination.
The workers and the people marched in the streets of Ahwaz and chanted slogans such as “Shame Melli Bank, leave Steel workers alone” [Melli (national) bank is the owner of the Steel National Group of Ahwaz].
In the march, the people and the workers showed determination, solidarity with other workers and unity in their protest: “We stand with Haft Tapeh”, “Shame on the government’s media”, “We, steel workers, against injustice and oppression, we fight, we fight!” , “Imprisoned workers must be freed”, “Workers rather die than to accept abjection”, “Unemployment, inflation, people’s dilemma”.
Fearless workers and people of Shush in Iran defend their leaders, representatives and activists
Today, 20th November 2018, striking sugar cane workers of Haft Tapeh in Khuzestan province, Iran, on their 16th day of strike, held another protest in front of the governor’s office in Shush.
“What has Ismail Bakhshi said that is “security” [reference to accusations of actions against the government and national security]? We are all “security”! As if Mr Bakhshi has committed embezzlement [like the directors have]” said a worker activist at the assembly.
Members of the public and the workers chanted “Imprisoned worker must be freed!”
After the assembly, the striking workers and members of the public formed a massive march through the city and chanted slogans in support of the workers, unity and for the release of the imprisoned workers.
Abroad, mainly in European and Northern American cities, actions and campaigns in defence of Haft Tapeh workers and for the release of Ismail Bakhshi have been announced and are to be held.
The extent and strength of the protest has brought fear and division among the heads of the Islamic regime. Hawza Ilmyya (Sharia Seminary) of the Islamic regime in Qom, Shush, Dezful and Ahwaz, also the Combatant Clergy Association of Qom have supported the workers of Haft Tapeh. The ministry of labour has sent a team to negotiate with the protesting workers in Khuzestan.
As the workers of Haft Tapeh continue their strong protest along with members of the public, the Islamic regime was forced to free 14 of the arrested workers. However, Ismail Bakhshi, Mohamad Khanifar, Moslem Armand, Hosein Fazel and Sepideh Gholian (a student activist) are still in custody.
Farzaneh Zilabi, solicitor of the arrested Haft Tapeh workers, said that she has no information regarding the whereabouts and condition of the detainees.
The authorities have put together a “security” case of “disturbing public order” against all the workers.
According to reports, the bank accounts of some workers have been suspended, which has angered the workers even more. The pretext is that they allegedly haven’t paid their loans.
In addition to the arrests and the pressures, the authorities have stationed their armed forces at the gates of the Haft Tapeh complex and other locations in Shush to stop the protests and prevent movement. However, they have failed to hold back the workers and the people who fearlessly march and chant slogans in defence of the leaders, representatives and activists.
The workers of Haft Tapeh have announced that they will continue to strike and protest until all those who have been arrested (including the student activist) are freed, all of their unpaid wages are paid, the current owners of Haft Tapeh are dismissed and the security cases against the workers are discarded.
Striking steel workers of Ahwaz in Iran tell the authorities that the workers’ assembly is the platform
On 20th November 2018, workers of the Steel National Group of Ahwaz in Iran held their 8th day of strike. The factory was full of armed and security forces to prevent the workers from leaving the workplace, but the workers got together and forced them back. The excuse for militarising the workplace was that the provincial governor and other authorities want to come to listen to the workers.
The workers held their assembly in front of the provincial governor’s office and announced that if the authorities have anything to say to the workers, the workers assembly is the place to do it.
The workers started their march through the city of Ahwaz and chanted slogans to show that they stand united, are unafraid, won’t give up their rights, stand for justice, are against poverty, defend workers of Haft Tapeh and that the imprisoned workers must be released. The workers speak for the vast majority of the people and represent their demands and objections.
Massive protest and vast support for arrested sugar cane worker representatives in Iran
On 19th November 2018, the 15th day of the Haft Tapeh sugar cane workers’ strike in Khuzestan province, masses of workers and people of the city of Shush marched through the city and chanted “Free imprisoned workers!” following the arrest of Ismail Bakhshi and other workers’ representatives of Haft Tapeh.
When the workers drove towards the governor’s office in Shush city to protest, they were cheered by the people. When they arrived at the assembly point, they were welcomed by many people who had been waiting there.
When the protest started with loud slogans of “Free imprisoned workers!”, more and more people joined the workers and their families.
The city’s merchants closed down their shops in solidarity with the striking workers and the protesters.
Workers, teachers and students held placards in support of the striking workers and called for the release of the arrested workers.
The masses of protesters chanted slogans against injustice, poverty, embezzlements, corruption and expressed their anger at the armed forces.
After the protest in front of the governor’s office, the people marched towards the judiciary where they demanded the release of the arrested workers.
At the same time as the protest in Shush, workers of the Steel National Group of Ahwaz gathered in front of the provincial governor’s office and chanted slogans calling for the release of the arrested workers of Haft Tapeh.
A worker gave a speech at the assembly, saying that they will continue their strike until the production lines restart, all of their unpaid wages are paid and all arrested Haft Tapeh workers are released. The protesting workers welcomed the statement.
A female teacher also delivered a speech to stress the solidarity of teachers with the workers of Haft Tapeh, Steel, HEPCO, Asalooyeh and others who face similar issues. She also highlighted the release of the arrested workers of Haft Tapeh.
A group of students from Allameh Tabatabai University in Tehran held a gathering and read out statements in support of Haft Tapeh workers.
A group of workers of Asaluyeh in Bushehr province published a video clip in support of the workers.
More than 200 worker activists signed a petition in support of the striking workers of Haft Tapeh and for the release of those who were arrested.
Tens of lawyers reiterated the rightfulness of the gathering of Haft Tapeh workers and their demands in an open letter. They also demanded solutions to the issues that the workers face.
A group of seasonal workers and immigrant workers of Damavand and sugar workers of Ahwaz expressed their solidarity with workers of Haft Tapeh.
A group of HEPCO workers held a banner that reads “We defend workers of Haft Tapeh” and shared it online.
The arrested are: Esmail Bakhshi, Mohamad Khanifar, Mohsen Armand, Pouya Pashmeh, Saeed Mansouri, Jalil Ahmadi, Azim Sorkheh, Mehdi Davoodi, Saeed Alkasir, Alizadeh, Omid Azadi, Seyed Hasan Fazeli, Samir Ahmadi, Slamat Nia, Emad Kasir, Mahmood Sadi, Khaled Tamimi and Sepideh Ghelyan (journalist). So far there are no news about the arrested.
Sugar Cane workers in Iran mobilise society, government arrest workers’ representatives, workers carry on
On 18th November 2018, sugar cane workers of Haft Tapeh in Khuzestan province, Iran, entered their 14th day of strike and despite the presence of the Special Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran, they managed to break through the barriers in front of their workplace and take their protest to the streets of Shush city. The workers held their assembly in front of the governor’s office as it was decided in the public assembly of the workers.
In the gathering, that a group of teachers and families of the workers joined in support and to express their unity, Esmail Bakhshi, the elected representative of the workers to the Workers’ Council of Haft Tapeh, delivered a speech and reflected on the demands of the workers, the protests and the presence of the armed forces:
“Without any violence or causing any damage to anything, we have held the most glorious strike we could possibly hold. Our trike has been so inspiring that people of Shush, merchants, students, and teachers have joined us.” He added “now we see that instead of dealing with our issues, the authorities have increased the presence of their armed forces at our workplace and now here.” Esmail Bakhshi addressed the armed forces and said to them: “What have we said that you point your guns at the people!? You are one of us. You are the children of this society.”
The people clapped and cheered and Esmail Bakhshi added “We are now going to drive towards the governor’s office but if they don’t let us, we will tie our hands together and go to block the road.”
At the end of the speech he mentioned that students, teachers and merchants have joined in and that tomorrow no one comes to work and they all gather in front of the governor’s office.
The workers went towards the governor’s office and held a large and strong protest along with families of the workers, students, teachers and members of the public. Bazaar merchants closed their shops in Shush in support of the strike and went to support the striking workers despite attempts by the armed forces to prevent them from joining the protest.
According to reports that were shared on the Telegram group of Haft Tapeh workers, Esmail Bakhshi and Mohsen Armand, who is another elected representative of the workers, along with a female journalist were arrested after the protest.
The workers have formed different groups to pursue the release of the arrested workers.
Striking workers and their families march through the city of Shush, Iran
On 16th November 2018, sugar cane workers of Haft Tapeh in Khuzestan, Iran, marched in the streets of Shush city on the 12th day of the strike.
The workers went to the mosque of Shush where Friday prayers were being held and turned it into a scene of protest and exposure of the corruption of government officials. Some of the Basij forces of the government challenged the protesters but didn’t manage to silence them.
At the assembly, Esmail Balhshi, elected representative of Haft Tapeh’s Workers’ Council, called on workers and their families to gather in front of the governor’s office on 17th November.
Esmail Bakhshi called on workers of other industries and the people to support Haft Tapeh workers. In response to the call people of Shawar, farmers of Shush, sugar workers of Shush, youth of Malek Ashtar and workers of the National Steel Group of Ahwaz shared their message of solidarity on the workers of Haft Tapeh Telegram group. He also thanked workers of the National Steel Group of Ahwaz for their support to which the assembly responded with cheering and slogans of “Steel, Haft Tapeh, Happy unity!”
The workers continued their protest in the bazaar of Shush and chanted “People of Shush, support, support!”