Seventeen years ago, United for Iran began as a shared dream. What started as a collective protest for freedom has grown into a resilient community of activists, human rights defenders, journalists, former political prisoners, members of ethnic and religious minorities, and LGBTQ+ advocates. While our backgrounds and perspectives are diverse, we are united by our deep love for Iran and the pain of being forced from our homeland—unable to return safely to the people and places we hold dear.
As we look back on the past year, we must acknowledge a brutal reality: the Iranian people are living through one of the darkest, most traumatic chapters in their modern history. The Iranian people find themselves increasingly squeezed between external military escalation and internal tyranny. They have endured relentless airstrikes, widespread destruction, and constant fear.
In late 2025 and early 2026, the people demonstrated unimaginable courage by rising up to demand their fundamental rights. The regime met these peaceful protests with unfathomable brutality—imposing severe internet blackouts to shroud their crimes while security forces turned live ammunition on their own citizens in the streets. Between state-sponsored massacres, escalating conflict, and systemic violence, virtually every Iranian family carries the deep, agonizing weight of collective trauma.
Yet, even in the depths of these shutdowns and crackdowns, something extraordinary happened. As access was severed, Iranians turned to secure digital tools, circumvention technologies, and advocacy channels. The surge in demand for these lifelines reached unprecedented levels—serving as a stark, powerful reminder of why our mission exists and why this work matters now more than ever.
Despite the immense toll, the story of Iran today is not just one of suffering—it is one of profound courage. We are endlessly inspired by the people inside Iran who continue to reclaim their autonomy day by day. In so many ways, they have already won. By choosing to live authentically and stand up for their fundamental rights regardless of the cost, they are rendering the regime's ideology obsolete. Violence and coercion cannot extinguish the human desire for freedom, dignity, and belonging.
As we mark United for Iran’s 17th anniversary, our focus remains squarely on the future. We don't just dream of an end to oppression; we build toward a vibrant, inclusive Iran where every single person—no matter their identity, background, or belief—truly belongs.
To everyone who has stood with us, used our tools, amplified Iranian voices, or supported our cause over the past 17 years: thank you for being part of this journey. We will continue this work for as long as it takes—until the day we can all gather and celebrate together in a free Iran.
Take Action: Stand With United for Iran Today
Change isn't built on hope alone—it takes tools, resources, and persistent global solidarity. As we continue to support the Iranian people during this crucial time, here is how you can support the movement:
1 Amplify Iranian Voices
Silence only serves the oppressor. Follow United for Iran on social media, share our posts, and help keep the international community informed about the ongoing reality inside Iran.
2. Download & Share Our Digital Tools
If you are in Iran or in contact with activists inside the country, our secure digital tools are built to protect safety, communication, and human rights:
- Nahoft: An offline encryption app that allows activists to communicate safely even during heavy internet restrictions.
- Gershad: A community platform designed to help citizens navigate around morality police and stay safe in public spaces.
- Iran Prison Atlas (IPA): The most comprehensive database tracking political prisoners, judicial abuses, and detention centers.
- Safe Activism: A suite of toolkits and how-to guides to reduce the risk of activism.
3. Direct Financial Support to Iranian Activists
Your tax-deductible contribution directly funds the development of secure tech tools, civil society initiatives, and human rights advocacy. Every dollar strengthens the capacity of everyday Iranians fighting for their basic freedoms.