Raha Sheikhi

Their life

Raha Sheikhi was a three-year-old Iranian child traveling with her family in Isfahan province when their vehicle came under fire from checkpoint forces. She was killed alongside members of her family during an incident that drew widespread condemnation as an example of the lethal risks faced by civilians—especially children—amid Iran’s intensified security measures.

Raha Sheikhi lived with her family in Iran and was among several family members traveling together when security forces fired on their vehicle at a checkpoint in Isfahan province. Reports describe the checkpoint as part of a broader surge in roadblocks established by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its affiliated Basij militia. Her killing occurred during a period marked by mass arrests, intrusive searches, and repeated reports of unlawful use of lethal force against civilians.

How they died

Raha Sheikhi was killed when Iranian security forces opened fire at an illegal checkpoint during a nationwide security crackdown. The shooting occurred as part of expanded checkpoint operations justified by authorities as counter-espionage measures following the Iran–Israel conflict. Human rights observers state the checkpoint had no legal basis and that civilians posed no threat.

Checkpoint personnel opened fire on the family’s vehicle, resulting in fatal gunshot injuries to Raha Sheikhi. Legal experts cited in reporting note that firing on civilian vehicles without a sequence of escalation (warnings, disabling shots) violates Iran’s own regulations on the use of firearms. No evidence has been reported indicating the family posed any threat.

Why we remember them

This record exists so that Raha Sheikhi, and all who are named in this archive, are never reduced to a number.

References & sources