Yousef Ansari

Yousef Ansari, a poet, novelist, and member of the Iranian Writers Association (IWA), was arrested on January 8, 2026, after he spoke during Baktash Abtin’s memorial ceremony, alongside Mostafa Babadi. Abtin, a board member of the IWA, had died in custody after delays in receiving medical care four years prior. He remained in detention despite a later court order for bail. On February 7, 2026, he was referred to court, and a February 24, 2026 trial session ended with his return to Greater Tehran prison, with bail acceptance postponed. He was reportedly released on bail in mid-March.