A technical error exposing his identity on a digital platform transformed the life of Jamshid Sharmahd, a German-Iranian software engineer residing in California. While initially focused on providing web design and broadcasting services for the Kingdom Assembly of Iran, his involvement with the group's opposition activities eventually led to his abduction, imprisonment, and ultimate execution by Iranian authorities.
Early Life and Career
Born in Tehran on 23 March 1955, Sharmahd relocated to Hanover, West Germany, at the age of seven. Raised in a German-Iranian household and identifying as Zoroastrian, he trained as an electrician. In 1980, he briefly returned to Iran to marry before settling back in West Germany by 1983. He attained German citizenship in 1995. After establishing a software business, he moved to the United States in 2003, where he settled in Glendora, California, and maintained permanent residency.
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Sharmahd provided technical infrastructure for Tondar, a monarchist opposition group associated with the Kingdom Assembly of Iran. Following the 2007 kidnapping of group leader Frood Fouladvand, Sharmahd increased his role in web publishing and satellite radio operations. Though his contributions were intended to remain anonymous, a technical fault revealed his name, linking him directly to the platform. The group faced significant hostility, including two burglaries at its Los Angeles office and a 2009 attempt on Sharmahd's life by an individual later charged with hiring a hit man.
Abduction and Trial
In July 2020, while transiting through Dubai to India, Sharmahd was kidnapped by Iranian intelligence agents. His forced disappearance preceded a 2023 trial in a Tehran Revolutionary Court, where he faced charges including planning terrorist acts, such as a 2008 mosque attack in Shiraz. The proceedings, presided over by judge Abolghasem Salavati, were heavily criticized by Amnesty International and the European Council for lacking due process. During his detention, reports indicated he was held in solitary confinement, tortured, and denied medication for his Parkinson's disease.
International Response and Execution
Despite international efforts to secure his release—including advocacy from German politician Friedrich Merz—the Iranian Supreme Court confirmed the death sentence in April 2023. Germany and the United States labeled the trial a sham, with Germany expelling two Iranian diplomats in protest. Sharmahd remained in Iranian custody until his execution on 28 October 2024 at age 69. Following his death, European officials and various human rights organizations condemned the action as part of a broader campaign of transnational repression.
Fast facts
- Born: 23 March 1955, Tehran
- Died: 28 October 2024, Tehran
- Citizenship: Germany, Iran
- Residency: Glendora, California
- Health condition: Parkinson's disease
- Organization: Kingdom Assembly of Iran
Questions readers ask
What was Jamshid Sharmahd's professional background?
He worked as an electrician, software developer, journalist, and radio personality.
Why was he targeted by the Iranian government?
He provided technical and media support to the Kingdom Assembly of Iran, a monarchist opposition group that Iran classifies as a terrorist organization.
Achievements
- Worked as software developer, radio personality and electrician
