UN alarmed by Iran execution surge, says death penalty used to 'instill fear'

The United Nations has expressed deep concern over a sharp increase in executions in Iran, alleging the death penalty is being used to quell dissent and maintain control over the population. Anti-regime protests erupted in Iran in January, leading to a severe government crackdown. Since March, the UN's Human Rights Commissioner, Volker Turk, has highlighted a surge in executions, with at least 56 people put to death on national security-related charges.

Over 100 others face potential execution for similar offenses. Turk stated that Iran's use of capital punishment is a means to instill fear and suppress dissent among the populace. The UN chief condemned the persistent lack of fair trials and due process guarantees, alleging that confessions are often obtained through torture or other ill-treatment.

Some executions reportedly occurred in public settings, with some carried out just weeks after arrest. Twelve defendants were sentenced to death during a single three-hour closed-door hearing. The wave of anti-government demonstrations, initially sparked by high living costs, escalated into widespread protests in late December. Iran blamed more than 3,000 deaths on "terrorist acts" orchestrated by the US and Israel, though rights groups estimate the toll to be higher, accusing security forces of firing on demonstrators.

The US and Israel subsequently launched a joint military operation in Iran on February 28, exacerbating the situation. Since the joint attack, arrests and executions have multiplied, linked to both the conflict and the protests. Turkey urged Iran to cease all executions and move towards abolishing the death penalty, emphasizing that such punishment is incompatible with the right to life and human dignity.