Iran executes protesters as regime intensifies crackdown on dissent

In Iran, public executions have resurfaced as the regime intensifies its crackdown on dissent following months of conflict with the U.S. and widespread protests in January. On July 28, 2026, three young men—Amirhossein Safari, 27, Abolfazl Sepahi, 23, and Alirez Sepahi, 25—were executed in Isfahan’s Alikhani Square for alleged involvement in protests against the government. Eyewitnesses reported that security forces were heavily present, with a truck mounted with a machine gun deployed to deter any potential protests during the execution. The executions were carried out at dawn, coinciding with the morning prayer call, a time designated by the regime for such actions.

Human rights groups have raised alarms about the situation, indicating that over 100 individuals are at risk of execution on similar charges. Iranian lawyers have suggested that the actual number of those facing execution could be even higher. In the Alikhani case, 12 young men received death sentences, while others were sentenced to prison terms ranging from five to ten years. Reports from family members of the defendants reveal that many were subjected to severe torture and forced confessions, with claims that they were coerced into admitting to crimes they did not commit.

The regime's actions have drawn condemnation from organizations like Amnesty International, which highlighted that among those on death row are individuals who were arrested as children. The organization has called for urgent diplomatic action from UN member states to halt further executions. Family members of those executed have faced threats from security forces, warning them against speaking to the media or contacting other families involved in the case. This atmosphere of fear extends beyond the immediate victims, as relatives express concern for the safety of their other children.

The return of public executions in Iran marks a significant escalation in the regime's efforts to suppress dissent and instill fear among the populace. The international community is urged to respond to these human rights violations, as the situation continues to deteriorate for those opposing the Iranian government.