Victim of child marriage in Iran dies of wounds after self-immolation, human rights groups claim

Soma Moghaddi, an 18-year-old victim of child marriage in Iran, died earlier this week from injuries sustained after self-immolation in Piranshahr, West Azerbaijan province. According to HRANA News Agency, Moghaddi set herself on fire following years of spousal abuse, suffering burns on 90% of her body. She was transferred to Imam Khomeini Hospital in Urmia but passed away 11 days later. Iranian media reported rumors of her husband's involvement, though judiciary authorities have not commented. HRANA stated that child marriage "inflict[s] irreparable damage" on children, citing issues like maternal mortality and suicide attempts. Under Iranian law, girls under 13 and boys under 15 can marry with paternal guardian and court approval, with no absolute minimum age.