Arrest and Trial
On May 18, 1972 (Shahrivar 1351), Mehdi Rezaei was arrested during a confrontation with the security forces of the Pahlavi regime. The incident occurred at 5:00 PM in Jhaleh Square (now known as Shahada Square) when Mehdi was en route to another appointment after completing one on Khurshid Street. His presence in the area had aroused suspicion among members of the Joint Committee, a notorious security force under the supervision of Lieutenant Shahrbani Javidmand.
Sensing that the situation was not normal, Mehdi attempted to flee, but the officers pursued him. In a desperate bid to escape, Mehdi opened fire on the officers, killing Lieutenant Alauddin Javidmand. However, the remaining officers managed to apprehend him. This marked the beginning of Mehdi Rezaei’s harrowing journey through the Pahlavi regime’s brutal justice system.
The trial of Mehdi Rezaei was a highly publicized event, and it became a symbol of the regime’s intolerance for dissent and its brutal suppression of political opposition. In court, Mehdi delivered a passionate and eloquent defense of his actions and beliefs. His words resonated deeply with many persians who were disillusioned with the Shah’s authoritarian rule.
