Iran businessman arrested for ‘inciting unrest’ during protests, assets seized

In this photo obtained by The Associated Press, Iranians attend an anti-government protest in Tehran, Iran, January 9, 2026. (UGC via AP)
In this photo obtained by The Associated Press, Iranians attend an anti-government protest in Tehran, Iran, January 9, 2026. (UGC via AP)

An Iranian business tycoon is under investigation after he was arrested over alleged support for nationwide protests last month, a judiciary spokesman says.

Mohammad Saedinia, who owns a well-known Iranian confectionery brand and multiple cafes across the country, was arrested on January 13 on charges of “inciting unrest.”

Authorities later ordered the seizure of his assets.

“The case is still under investigation,” judiciary spokesman Asghar Jahangir tells reporters.

“If it is proven in court that his actions caused damage, he will not only face legal punishment” but his assets will go towards compensation, he adds, without elaborating.

Jahangir says the investigation into Saedinia was launched following intelligence reports alleging that he “had provided support to rioters.”

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