Iranian-Australian civil engineer Soroush, who recently fled Iran during the turmoil of the current uprisings, after a harrowing multi-week journey, he has now returned to Australia. He made it back to Australia last week after making a harrowing trip across Turkiye to exit Iran. His experience highlights not only the dangers faced by those in the region but the efforts of individuals like him to assist others in similar predicaments.
When he was in Tehran, Soroush managed to take one of the most heartbreaking snapshots during a missile attack. This powerful image is a reminder of how dangerous the fight for freedom has become in Iran. Amid harrowing conditions, Soroush persevered to make it to the border with Turkiye. His resolve to better the lives of his fellow Australians never faltered. Now, he is working with more than ten Australians to assist them in leaving Iran. It is a testament to his deep commitment to caring for those in need.
The Challenges of Escape
Soroush encountered a variety of hurdles in his journey to escape Iran. The war zone conditions were incredibly dangerous, not just due to military action, but at the hands of Iranian officials. Meanwhile, his clients still come to him terrified of being arrested by the regime during this ongoing war between the two sides.
“You know, and you worry about what would happen to them and just how we could support them in all of this,” – Maryam
For now, Soroush suspects that the Iranian authorities are simply using the ongoing war as an excuse. They want to imprison people who they view as a danger to the state. This makes an incredibly treacherous situation even more perilous for people trying to flee.
His pedigree as a secular, intellectual, defender of minority rights and member of the Kurdish ethnic minority only adds weight to the challenges he faces. Unlike the majority Shia Muslim population, Soroush’s identity places him in a vulnerable position within the socio-political landscape of Iran.
A Journey of Solidarity
Though his work comes with great danger, Soroush is unapologetic about his desire to help his fellow Iranians. He is using his money, creativity, and access in the privileged Australian community to bring safe passage to those who need it. His commitment is an inspiring example of true solidarity. Expatriates are all deeply worried about their families and friends remaining in Iran.
Soroush’s action as an agnostic intermediary is pivotal. He links individuals stuck in Iran with the Australian officials who can provide them the most assistance. His devotion is clear when he writes, “If I can’t make it somewhere, I will still register. This phrase sums up his permanent determination to assist people no matter the risks he will face himself.
The Broader Implications
The ongoing situation in Iran has received ample coverage, both here and abroad. As these conflicts intensify, fears about human rights violations are growing louder. Advocacy groups have long demanded that individuals held in detention under such chaotic and draconian conditions be protected.
“The authorities must ensure all those detained are protected from enforced disappearance, torture and other ill-treatment, and afforded fair trials at all times, including during armed conflict,” – ABC/Wires
As the world stands by in anxious hope, people like Soroush are a reminder that no oppression can extinguish the courage and compassion of humanity. Their work illuminates not just issues of individual courage but fundamental systemic injustices that harm millions of people every day.
