The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has urged Iranian authorities to halt the executions of protesters and to reconsider the use of capital punishment in these cases. The appeal was conveyed through official statements and amplified on social media to reach a broad international audience.
In a formal update, the ministry indicated it was monitoring the situation closely after the arrests of Mohammad Ghobadlu and Mohammad Borugani, who were detained in connection with the protests that have swept parts of Iran. The OHCHR underscored the urgency of safeguarding human rights and the right to due process, urging a review of the impending sentences where applicable.
The OHCHR statement on social media stressed that authorities should immediately suspend executions and seek non-lethal means to address civil unrest, while ensuring fair judicial procedures for those accused. The broader context involves widespread demonstrations that began in mid-September following the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old whose death while in custody sparked nationwide outrage over police conduct and gender-related policing in the country.
Images and videos emerged online showing public expressions of dissent, including acts of protest by women and men who challenged strict dress codes and demanded accountability. These moments have fueled ongoing conversations about human rights, safety, and the responsibilities of law enforcement in managing protests without resorting to capital punishment.
Meanwhile, the Iranian courts have handed down severe penalties in some cases tied to the protests. Reports indicate that five protesters were sentenced to death in connection with the death of a police officer, while eleven others received longer prison terms. The judicial process in these cases has drawn international scrutiny and raised questions about judicial transparency and the right to appeal.
Record of executions has included dates in December and earlier in the year, with additional cases announced involving a number of defendants who have been labeled as principal participants in alleged crimes. The evolving situation has been accompanied by concern for younger demonstrators as well, with local media indicating that two teenagers have faced discussions of capital punishment, a development that has intensified calls for restraint and protection of youth rights.
Diplomatic repercussions have followed the events, as several foreign ministries summoned Iranian ambassadors to discuss the ongoing capital punishment actions. For instance, Italian authorities requested clarifications and urged a pause on death sentences, while the Dutch foreign ministry summoned Iran’s envoy to convey concerns over the treatment of protesters. In a related development, the Norwegian government engaged in dialogue with Iran, raising questions about due process and the broader human rights context. These exchanges reflect a growing international call for restraint and adherence to international standards on the treatment of detainees and the right to life.