In yet another episode of “Iran: The Untold Story Podcast,” Ehsan Qaraei, a civil engineer residing in Norway and a dedicated human rights activist, shared his personal experiences and insights on Iran’s political struggle. Qaraei, whose father was executed in 1988 during a mass purge of political prisoners in Iran’s prisons, detailed his journey from Iran to Norway and his commitment to the Iranian Resistance movement.
Qaraee relocated to Norway following the 2009 uprisings in Iran. He has since been an active supporter of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) and the People’s Mujahedin Organization of Iran (MEK). A deep-seated desire for justice and freedom for the Iranian people drives his involvement in these movements.
Reflecting on the recent death of Ebrahim Raisi, the clerical regime’s president, Qaraee described the mixed emotions he felt. “It was unreal. Even though we are all happy that he’s gone, it still feels unbelievable,” he said. The news triggered memories of the atrocities committed by the regime and the enduring pain of those who lost loved ones. Qaraei emphasized the importance of remembering the steadfastness of the victims’ families, many of whom did not live to see this day.
Qaraee shared a poignant story from his childhood, highlighting the pervasive fear and censorship under the Iranian regime. His father was arrested and executed when Qaraee was very young, a fact he only learned about at the age of nine. “My mother told me what happened and asked me not to tell anyone, especially at school, because of the fear the regime had spread,” he recalled. This secrecy continued until he confided in close friends during high school, discovering that others had similar tragic family histories.
A campaign launched by Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, the president-elect of the NCRI, to seek justice for the victims of the 1988 massacre has been instrumental in bringing these stories to light. “The Iranian society started to talk about it, especially during the presidential election when Ebrahim Raisi, one of the candidates, was a key figure in the 1988 massacre,” Qaraee explained. This campaign has allowed Iranians to discuss and seek justice for past atrocities openly.
Qaraee also recounted his journey towards activism. Initially skeptical due to the regime’s demonization of the MEK, he became convinced of their legitimacy and dedication after extensive research. His experiences in Mashhad, working with charities and witnessing extreme poverty, further solidified his commitment to the resistance. “I felt a responsibility to help these children, and now, through the MEK, I am on a path that will help them achieve the life they deserve,” he stated.
Meeting Maryam Rajavi in person had a profound impact on Qaraee. “She is a strong, charismatic woman who is not afraid to pursue the goal of freedom for the Iranian people,” he said. Mrs. Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan for a democratic Iran resonates deeply with Qaraee’s values, and he believes it offers a clear, actionable path toward a free Iran.
Qaraee’s vision for a free Iran includes equality, justice, and mutual respect among nations. He believes in a country where no one is prosecuted for their beliefs and where children are not forced into labor. “A free Iran is a country that respects human rights and provides equal opportunities for all,” he affirmed.
Concluding the interview, Qaraee praised the determination, steadfastness, and sacrifice of the Iranian Resistance. “These three words—determination, steadfastness, and sacrifice—describe the essence of the MEK and the Iranian Resistance. Their commitment to freedom and justice is extraordinary and unique,” he declared.
