Sweden confirmed that Iranian authorities carried out the execution of Habib Chaab, a dual Swedish-Iranian citizen, on May 6. Foreign Minister Tobias Billström stated that the government received the report with grave concern and that Sweden, together with the European Union, condemned the use of the death penalty in all circumstances. He noted that Stockholm has been actively engaging with Tehran at high levels to address Chaab’s case and to seek clemency on his behalf since his sentencing was issued.
In discussions with reporters, the minister emphasized Sweden’s consistent stance calling on Iran to revoke the death sentence and to uphold fundamental human rights. He described a direct meeting with Iran’s foreign minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, as a part of Sweden’s sustained effort to convey the seriousness of this issue. The exchanges underscored how Sweden connects the case to broader EU priorities relating to justice, regional stability, and human rights protections for dual nationals who can face unique legal jeopardies abroad.
The chronology of Chaab’s case traces back to his disappearance in Turkey in 2020, with Tehran accusing him of kidnapping and alleging involvement in operations against the Iranian opposition. Iranian authorities have linked Chaab to alleged roles in organizing assaults tied to opposition forces in Khuzestan and in supporting the Arab Movement for the Liberation of Ahvaz. The 2018 Ahvaz attack, which claimed multiple lives, including a child, and left many wounded, is cited by Iranian officials as part of the charges associated with Chaab. These allegations have been a central thread in the diplomatic dialogue between Sweden and Iran, influencing how both sides frame the legal and human rights aspects of the case on the international stage.
Before the high-level engagements intensified, the international spotlight focused on Sweden’s calls for due process and a stay of execution, particularly in the context of concerns surrounding the rights of dual nationals. The latest developments show a formal exchange of views that followed the confirmation of Chaab’s sentence. Sweden has reiterated its position against capital punishment and urged Iran to reassess the judicial path taken in Chaab’s case, aligning with broader European considerations about human rights, rule of law, and international legal norms. The ongoing dialogue reflects Sweden’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of individuals with cross-border ties and to maintaining a steady, principled approach in its foreign policy communications with Tehran. The situation remains a touchstone for discussions on consular protections, fair trial guarantees, and the due consideration of international law in cases involving dual nationals who travel between countries or reside in multiple jurisdictions.