An Iranian psychologist, Seyyed Ahmad Seydabdollahi, who appealed to President Donald Trump for support in protests against the Islamic Republic, has been sentenced to seven months in prison. His family claims that authorities pressured him to make a video denouncing Trump and Americans. Seydabdollahi, 32, previously resided in Tehran and posted a video in English on January 4, where he urged Trump to fulfill his promise to aid Iranian protesters. He emphasized that Iranian youth trust Trump’s words and that those who assist the Iranian people will be remembered.
In the video, he stated, “To prove your good intentions to the Iranian people, either do something without saying anything, or act immediately on your words, because many young people trust your words.” He also expressed that good deeds aren’t forgotten by the Iranian public, suggesting that future allies would be rewarded.
Ten days after posting the video, Seydabdollahi was arrested at his father’s home in Borjen. Following his arrest, reports reveal he was subjected to sustained pressure from Iranian security services. Family members mentioned that since his initial detention, he has undergone severe interrogations and has been held in solitary confinement for extended periods. Eventually, he was sentenced to seven months in prison in June 2026.
The Borjen Revolutionary Court found him guilty of “engaging in media activities contrary to national security,” and in addition to his prison sentence, he faces a five-year ban from any government or public service roles. The Hana human rights group noted that during his imprisonment, he was denied family contact for 17 days and often deprived of a lawyer and communication opportunities.
Authorities are now pursuing a second case against him, which includes charges of “propaganda against the regime.” Reports indicate that investigators are looking into possible ties he may have to foreign governments, specifically the CIA and Mossad, claiming he received funds for producing videos.
His relatives report that he has faced ongoing pressure to recant his original statements and create videos that would insult Trump, although he has resisted these demands. They describe the conditions of his confinement as poor, citing instances where he has been placed back into solitary confinement without clear reasoning.
The relative expressed concerns regarding Seydabdollahi’s future after release, particularly due to the significant ban on civil service jobs in the context of Iran’s ongoing economic difficulties. Seydabdollahi is recognized as a popular figure among the youth, often advocating for those severely affected by government repression. Family recalls him encouraging others not to feel weak and to consider the difficulties faced by many others who had suffered greatly.
During the protests in January, several Iranians, including Seydabdollahi, reached out to President Trump. His call for support came as Trump warned Iranian authorities against violence towards peaceful demonstrators, promising continued support for those seeking change.
The recent crackdown has reportedly led to over 50,000 arrests in a span of just six weeks, with at least 56 executions tied to national security charges since March of that year. Iran’s mission to the UN has not issued any comment regarding these events.
