A distressing series of executions, arbitrary detentions, and extrajudicial killings marked the month, reflecting an intense crackdown on dissent by the Iranian authorities.
A report released details a grim tally of at least 91 executions in the month alone. The victims, ranging in age from 22 to 56, included 18 Baluch, two Kurdish, and four Afghan nationals. Among the condemned was a woman executed for murder and numerous individuals charged with drug-related offenses or vaguely defined crimes such as “ifsad fil-arz” (spreading corruption on earth) and “moharebeh” (enmity against God).
Eight prisoners sent to solitary confinement for the implementation of the death penalty in Ghezel Hesar Prison #StopExcutionInIran
These eight prisoners had previously been sentenced to death for charges related to drug offenses and murder.@JavaidRehmanhttps://t.co/JI9SQ0u5LJ— IRAN HRM (@IranHrm) October 31, 2023
These executions spanned a broad array of prisons across the country. The case of Ahl-e Daran, the sole woman executed, took place on October 21 in Isfahan Central Prison. Notably, on October 1, Hamidreza Khodabandeh Farsimadan Qashqai faced execution amidst accusations of rape and alleged anti-state activities, claims he fervently denied. His death coincided with heightened tensions between the state and the Qashqai community.
In another chilling instance, Hossein Ali Dil Baluch was executed without his family’s knowledge, only being informed posthumously to collect his body from the morgue. This act reflects a blatant disregard for legal procedures and human rights.
Executions Increase in October 2023
Executions in Iran have become increasingly rampant under Ebrahim Raisi, the Iranian regime’s President, as the government fears outbreak of protests by a disgruntled public. #EndDeathPenalty
Since January, the Iranian regime has executed more… pic.twitter.com/sSGKedJvjh— IRAN HRM (@IranHrm) October 30, 2023
The crackdown extended beyond the capital punishment. Throughout October, over 300 individuals were detained under various pretexts. Political arrests constituted the majority, with 269 detentions noted. Many arrests were linked to ongoing protests, notably in Sistan and Baluchestan province and during a funeral in Tehran. Other detainees included civil activists and individuals allegedly connected to the opposition group People’s Mojahedin of Iran (PMOI/MEK).
Additionally, arbitrary arrests continued with 20 individuals detained for purportedly attending private parties and sharing explicit images online. The religious minority of Baha’is faced targeted arrests, with 17 detained due to prior warrants and others without clear justification.
The #HumanRights of my oppressed compatriots have been violated inside #Iran and auctioned off on the international level. Swapping human rights for nuclear deal, forsaking human rights in Iran in the face of the regime’s depravity and terrorism in the region, and disregarding… pic.twitter.com/Bg1sabPXSX
— Maryam Rajavi (@Maryam_Rajavi) November 6, 2023
Extrajudicial killings also marred the month, with at least 25 citizens, including fuel porters and kulbars (individuals who carry goods for trade), killed by state security forces.
The severity of these incidents underscores a brutal approach to governance as Iran’s clerical regime confronts escalating challenges. The international community’s vigilance and response to these dire human rights abuses are urgently required, as Iran’s actions not only threaten the safety and rights of its citizens but also contravene international human rights standards.
MEK Iran (follow us on Twitter and Facebook), Maryam Rajavi’s on her site, Twitter & Facebook, NCRI (Twitter & Facebook), and People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran – MEK IRAN – YouTu
