Iran’s Surge in Executions Amidst Ongoing Conflict

The Islamic Republic of Iran is poised to break its previous record for executions in 2025, having already executed 657 individuals in just the first three months of this year, as reported by the Iranian Human Rights Association.

Critics argue that, amid the ongoing U.S. war with Israel, the Iranian regime seems determined to crush any opposition. This comes in light of significant anti-regime protests that have left many dead at the hands of security forces and militias.

In March, the regime faced backlash, including criticism from figures like former President Donald Trump, over its execution of 19-year-old wrestler Saleh Mohammadi.

Crackdown Intensifies During Conflict

A spokesperson for the State Department commented on Iran’s recent actions, stating, “This barbaric act is further proof of why this regime will never be allowed the advanced capabilities we seek to destroy.”

Mai Sato, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on human rights in Iran, indicated that as of March 30, at least six executions had occurred since the war began, with two more following on March 31.

According to Sato, victims include protesters, alleged Israeli spies, and those accused of “armed rebellion” against the Iranian government. “Due to the internet blackout, it’s hard to ascertain who else might be executed or is already at risk,” she stated. “What’s evident is that the death penalty is being utilized as a means to stifle political dissent during wartime,” she emphasized.

Concerns Over Internet Blackouts and Human Rights

The NCRI Secretariat shared details with Fox News Digital about the execution of four members from the Iranian opposition group, the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOE/MEK). They reported that Mohammad Taghavi and Akbar Daneshwarkar were taken from Gezer Hesar Prison on March 29 and executed shortly thereafter. Two other members were similarly executed on March 31.

Ali Safavi, associated with the NCRI Foreign Affairs Committee, urged for immediate actions to protect the lives of two members still at risk.

Maryam Rajavi, the incoming president of the NCRI, expressed in a statement that the recent executions “demonstrate the fear and desperation of the clerical regime.” She called upon the United Nations and its members to implement “realistic and effective measures,” which may include expelling Iranian diplomats linked to terrorism.

Escalation of Executions Raises Alarms

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights reported that Iran executed at least 1,500 individuals in 2025, not accounting for the thousands who died during protests earlier in January. The commissioner noted, “The scale and speed of executions suggest that the death penalty is being systematically used to intimidate, disproportionately affecting ethnic minorities and migrants.”

Amnesty International echoed these concerns, revealing that as of March 31, five “young protesters” had been moved to “unknown locations” and are at imminent risk of execution.