Baloch Figure Opposed To Iran Critically Injured in Herat Shooting
HERAT, AFGHANISTAN: Haji Rostam Ejbari, a prominent Baloch dissident opposed to the Islamic Republic of Iran, was critically injured in an armed attack in the western Afghan city of Herat.
According to the Baloch Activists Campaign, Ejbari was targeted by unidentified gunmen who opened fire on him, striking him in the head and ear. The incident took place on Wednesday, October 8, and has raised concerns among regional activists and observers of escalating threats against Iranian opposition figures in neighbouring countries.
Following the attack, Ejbari was rushed to a local hospital in Herat, where he remains in critical condition in the intensive care unit (ICU). Medical professionals have reportedly warned against transferring him to another facility due to the severity of his injuries, citing the high risk associated with his current state.
Ejbari is the son of the late Haji Ahmad, a well-known armed opponent of the Islamic Republic. During his lifetime, Haji Ahmad was frequently involved in armed confrontations with Iranian forces and was instrumental in training and organising Baloch resistance fighters.
While no group has claimed responsibility for the shooting, the attack is being viewed by some human rights observers as part of a broader pattern of violence against Baloch dissidents abroad.
Activists have called for an independent investigation into the incident and for increased protection of political refugees and opposition figures in the region.
