Iran carried out highest number of executions in decades

Iran executed at least 1,639 people last year, the highest number recorded there since 1989, two non-governmental organisations say. The total represents an increase of 68% compared to 2024, when 975 executions were recorded, according to a report by Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHR) and Paris-based Together Against the Death Penalty (EPCM). Mos...

Iran executed at least 1,639 people last year, the highest number recorded there since 1989, two non-governmental organisations say.

The total represents an increase of 68% compared to 2024, when 975 executions were recorded, according to a report by Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHR) and Paris-based Together Against the Death Penalty (EPCM).

Most of those hanged were convicted of drug-related offences or murder, they say. But at least 57 were convicted of security-related charges, including two protesters.

The NGOs warn that Iranian authorities could use executions even more extensively this year in the wake of January's protests and the war against the US and Israel.