‘Hijab Not Worn’ Climbing Athlete Faces Missing Person Rumors Followed by House Arrest Speculation

Rekabi Reportedly Missing After Competing Without Hijab at Seoul Event
Foreign Media Raises Suspicions of Detention at Iran Olympic Committee Building → House Arrest

On the 16th in Seoul, Iranian climber Elnaz Rekabi (33) was seen climbing with her hijab removed and her hair exposed at the 2022 International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) competition. Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Sung-wook] Elnaz Rekabi (33), an Iranian climbing athlete who attracted attention by competing without wearing a hijab at an international sports climbing competition held in Seoul, is suspected to be under house arrest.

On the 21st (local time), the British BBC, citing a source, reported that Rekabi was detained under surveillance by plainclothes agents at the Iranian Olympic Committee building and is currently under house arrest. It also pointed out that although Rekabi apologized for not wearing a hijab immediately after returning to Iran, this was because authorities threatened to confiscate her family’s home if she did not comply.

Earlier, Rekabi drew attention by competing without a hijab and with her hair tied back at the 2022 International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) competition held from the 10th to the 16th at a special venue in Hangang Park, Seoul. There was speculation that she did not wear the hijab to show support for the 'hijab protests' in Iran. Suspicions of her disappearance arose when she was unreachable by friends after the competition.

However, the Iranian Embassy in Korea stated on Twitter on the 18th, “Rekabi left Seoul that morning with other team members and departed for Iran,” and “We strongly deny all fake news and false information about Rekabi.” Rekabi also posted a clarification on social media, dismissing rumors of disappearance and detention.

In the early hours of the following day, the 19th, Rekabi returned to Iran through Imam Khomeini International Airport. She explained the hijab non-compliance as an “unintentional act,” saying, “I was busy putting on shoes and equipment and forgot to wear the hijab.” According to AFP and other agencies, dozens of supporters gathered at the airport that day, some of whom were reportedly not wearing hijabs.

Despite Rekabi’s explanation, human rights organizations expressed concerns that it might be a “forced confession” and worried about her safety. Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, said, “We are aware of this matter and are looking into it carefully,” adding, “Concerns have also been raised by relevant authorities.”

Suspicion is growing regarding the house arrest rumors. The Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI), a human rights organization headquartered in New York, stated on Twitter, “The IFSC must stand in solidarity with human rights organizations and all Iranian athletes to protect Rekabi,” and argued, “The Iranian government should not be taken at face value; they have detained, maimed, or killed opposition forces.”

In Iran, anti-government protests continue after 22-year-old woman Mahsa Amini died three days after being arrested by police for not wearing a hijab on the 16th of last month.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.