By Anietie anii-bassey

Authorities in Iran have escalated pressure on high-profile public figures, with judicial officials in the northern province of Golestan reportedly moving to confiscate the assets of several celebrities accused of criticizing the government.

Among those named is internationally recognized footballer Sardar Azmoun, whose inclusion on a list of 16 individuals has drawn widespread attention both in and outside the country. According to semi-official reports, the judiciary is targeting individuals it perceives as using their platforms to express dissent or challenge state authority.

Azmoun, once a key figure for Iran’s national team, has already faced professional consequences following a social media post that showed him alongside political leaders from the United Arab Emirates.

The move reportedly contributed to his removal from the national squad, signaling a broader crackdown on athletes whose public actions are deemed politically sensitive.

Also named on the list is popular Iranian musician Mohsen Yeghaneh, whose recent online statements have resonated with protest sentiments. In the aftermath of antigovernment demonstrations earlier this year, Yeghaneh shared a message on Instagram suggesting that the loss of lives during protests would deepen public resentment toward perceived oppression.

The judiciary’s actions follow earlier warnings from senior legal authorities in Iran, who indicated that celebrities expressing opposition to the government could face severe consequences, including financial penalties and asset seizures. The developments come amid a climate of heightened political sensitivity, as authorities continue to respond to public unrest and criticism.

Observers note that the targeting of well-known figures such as Azmoun and Yeghaneh reflects a broader strategy to deter dissent by leveraging both legal and economic pressure. Critics argue that such measures risk further inflaming tensions, particularly among younger populations who often view these celebrities as influential voices.

While officials have framed the actions as necessary to maintain national stability and uphold the law, the move has sparked debate about freedom of expression and the role of public figures in political discourse within Iran.