Arnika Dabbagh, a 15-year-old girl and national swimming champion, was from Gorgan. She was known for her athletic spirit, and her sister had described her as “the reason for the home's passion and life.” Arnika had a routine of breakfast, studying, and sports, and she loved life. Her wish was to see London up close once. She was a very successful swimmer, having won one silver medal and two bronze medals in national championships, as well as seven distinguished ranks in the national swimming festival for girls under 12. Her close ones remembered her as an energetic and hardworking girl who also had an active presence on social media.
Arnika Dabbagh died on January 9, 2026, during the nationwide anti-government protests in Iran, by direct shooting from security agents. She was hit in the heart by a bullet fired by Islamic Republic security forces, and some reports indicate that she was shot from behind. She is among many protesters who lost their lives during this uprising.
After Arnika's death, her memory was honored by many. Her mother stated that Arnika “loved living” and had an organized daily life. Homer Abbasi, a member of Iran's national swimming team, and Pedram Kashmiri, a member of the Kian Gorgan swimming team, paid tribute to Arnika Dabbagh during the 22nd season of Iran's Swimming League. The Golestan Swimming Board also released a video showing athletes observing a minute of silence in her memory at the national league's closing ceremony. Her fortieth-day ceremony was held on February 18, 2026, at her burial site in Golestan province, attended by family, relatives, and a large number of citizens, featuring Shahnameh recitation, the performance of the anthem “Ey Iran,” a mourning dance, and the release of doves. Her sister wrote in emotional posts: “You were the reason for the home's passion and life, child. You were only 15 when they took you from us. You wished to see the whole world; your compatriots made your wish come true. You, Arnika, your courage has no equal and never will. You and the other immortal names of Iran made our voice heard by the world.” And in another post: “I'm happy that you achieved everything you wanted in your life. Not just in your life, but even after you became immortal. One day I will tell the story of your life so everyone knows how different you were, child.” Arnika Dabbagh's name will remain in memory as a symbol of courage and a child of Iran whose future was tragically cut short.