SRW’s report Highlights ongoing violations against Shia communities in multiple countries
SRW’s report Highlights ongoing violations against Shia communities in multiple countries
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A new report by Shia Rights Watch (SRW)—an international pro-Shia rights organization—has documented a series of systematic violations targeting Shia Muslims across several countries between May 1 and June 1, 2025. Based on field observations, testimonies from local activists, and verified public sources, the report reveals ongoing persecution ranging from military assaults and forced displacement to religious discrimination and extrajudicial executions.
In Afghanistan, the report details a violent raid on the Shia-majority village of Safd Sang in Maidan Wardak province, carried out by Taliban fighters and armed nomadic groups. Under the direct oversight of provincial Taliban governor Hashim Hudayfa, homes were looted and civilians tortured in what human rights groups described as a campaign of forced displacement and demographic change, possibly amounting to ethnic cleansing of Hazara Shias.
Pakistan witnessed both extremist violence and official discrimination. A grenade attack in Quetta on a public gathering killed one person and injured ten. In Karachi’s Bahria area, local authorities removed religious banners and symbols from Shia households, threatening to cut off utilities for noncompliance—an act seen as a serious breach of religious freedom.
In Bahrain, restrictions on Shia worship continued, with security forces preventing Friday prayers at Imam Al-Sadiq Mosque in Diraz for the 34th consecutive week. Meanwhile, southern Lebanon saw intense Israeli airstrikes, particularly around Nabatieh al-Fawqa. More than 15 strikes caused severe damage to civilian property and instilled fear among the predominantly Shia population.
The report also highlights escalating repression in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province. Three political detainees—two brothers from Al-Mallaha and a young man from Al-Awamiyah—were executed. A Pakistani cleric was arrested upon arrival at Taif Airport, and two young men from Al-Awamiyah, detained as minors two years ago, were sentenced to death.
In Syria, the country saw heightened military activity, especially in the north, resulting in civilian casualties and widespread displacement. Reports also indicated continued arbitrary arrests and worsening humanitarian conditions in government-held areas.
Shia Rights Watch emphasized its neutrality and humanitarian focus, stating that some incidents were omitted due to lack of evidence. It urged the international community to act swiftly to safeguard the rights and dignity of Shia minorities globally.
