A Loving Mother and Brave Soul
Ashraf Nikbakht was born on April 22, 1967, in Izeh, a small, historic city in southwestern Iran known for its beautiful landscapes and strong community.
A devoted mother of three daughters, Ashraf Nikbakht was known for her kindness, which resonated throughout her family and extended relatives. Her warmth and compassion were treasured by all who knew her.
In 2006, Ashraf and her family moved to the central city of Isfahan, renowned for its stunning architecture and deep cultural roots. She started a small women’s clothing shop, and her hard work reflected her hopes and dreams for her children. Above all, she wished for a bright, secure future for her daughters, filled with opportunity and freedom.
On the evening of November 16, 2022, Ashraf Nikbakht and her daughter and son-in-law were on their way to a family wedding in Izeh. The streets of the city, including the well-known Hafez Street, had been tense with protests calling for freedom and justice. As they made their way to the wedding hall, their car was suddenly fired upon by Iranian security forces, who had been instructed to crack down on the unrest.
In the middle of this terrifying scene, Ashraf stepped out of the car and called out to the security officers: “Why are you shooting at us? Are we your enemies?” Her words, however, were met with gunfire. She was struck by five bullets in her chest, shoulder, and abdomen, a brutal attack that would claim her life. Her daughter and son-in-law, barely escaping with their own lives, rushed her to a hospital in Izeh, but Ashraf Nikbakht passed away in her daughter’s arms before they could reach it.
Ashraf Nikbakht was a proud Bakhtiari woman, a member of an ancient and resilient ethnic group in Iran. Her bravery in the face of violence and her unwavering love for her homeland defined her. One of her deepest wishes was to give her life for Iran if it meant a better future for her people.
Ashraf Nikbakht’s story is one of compassion and unbreakable courage. Her sacrifice will be remembered as a symbol of the countless Iranians who risk everything for the dream of a free Iran.
