According to information received by IranWire, Pouria Hamzeh-ei, a 20-year-old resident of Isfahan, was killed on January 9 during protests on Bozorgmehr Street after being shot in the heart by a sniper.

Bozorgmehr Street is a major historic thoroughfare in Isfahan. 

Known for its central location and traditional architecture, it became one of the main sites of large-scale demonstrations during the January 2026 uprising.

Pouria Hamzeh-ei was born on August 10, 2005. Those close to him described him as a bodybuilder and a football player, known for his good manners and gentle nature.

Family members said he worked multiple shifts in recent years in an effort to build a future for himself. 

After a long period of hard work, he had recently managed to purchase a car, which he valued deeply.

Pouria’s life reflected the experience of many working-class young people who have been at the forefront of recent protests.

Born in the mid-2000s, this generation has lived its entire life under international sanctions, economic mismanagement, and rising inflation. 

Working multiple jobs to afford basic milestones, such as buying a car, has become a significant achievement in Iran’s current economic conditions.

According to his family, before leaving home for the last time, Pouria told his mother, “I am going so that everyone can live in the future. Mom, forgive me.”