At least 1,425 people have been executed in Iran since Mahsa Amini’s death in custody sparked a nationwide protest movement in September 2022, a new report by Norway-based Iran Human Rights Organization said.
Context of Executions
The report indicates that the number of executions in Iran has almost doubled since the protests began, highlighting a significant escalation in capital punishment as a tool for state repression.
Drug-related Executions Surge
Executions for drug offenses have risen sharply, with a reported increase of 163%. This raises concerns about the fairness of trials in Iranian courts, particularly for those condemned.
International Reactions to Human Rights Violations
The collective condemnation of increased death sentences from foreign ministers of several countries underlines the global concern over Iran's human rights practices, urging for a cessation of these actions.
Additional Brutal Sentences
Aside from executions, there has been a troubling increase in harsh punishments such as flogging, which has been notably applied in the context of the protests.
Human Rights Organizations' Stance
Human rights advocates criticize Iran's use of the death penalty as a method to instill fear and suppress dissent, calling for adherence to international human rights standards.