Escalating arrests, executions in Iran

Human rights reports stated that Iran is witnessing a significant escalation in violations against detained men and women, amid growing concern among human rights organizations.

The judicial authorities carried out flogging sentences against Nada Dadeh-Jani and Stayesh (Behnoosh) Sarabi, two Kurdish women who were arrested during protests that took place in the country earlier this year. Following the implementation of the sentences, they were transferred to Sanandaj Central Prison.

Arrests and unknown fate

At least 20 citizens and activists have been arrested in recent days, while the fate of some of them remains unknown. Among those detained is human rights activist Shirin Masoudi, who was arrested by intelligence forces in Mahabad without an arrest warrant, according to the reports.

Arrests continue in several Iranian cities, targeting citizens from different backgrounds. Sara Rashidi Kashlanlou has remained missing for more than seven months, with no clear information about her legal status or place of detention. There is also insufficient official information regarding the conditions of detention or charges brought against several detainees.

Denial of medical care

In a related development, Roya Sabet, a Baha’i citizen, has been denied medical services and medical leave despite the deterioration of her health.

Meanwhile, filmmaker and documentary editor Sepideh Abtahi was released from Qarchak Prison, while actress Katayoun Riahi announced that she had been summoned to the Prosecutor’s Office for Culture and Media to complete legal procedures related to her case.

Raids on Baha’i families’ Homes

Security forces in civilian clothing simultaneously raided the homes of three Baha’i families in Isfahan, reportedly acting on a judicial order. The searches included the confiscation of personal and family belongings, as well as the closure of a shop belonging to the targeted families.

In a related development, the Sari Revolutionary Court handed down prison sentences totaling 26 years and 165 days, along with restrictions on certain social rights totaling 76 years, against 12 Baha’i citizens over cases related to their religious affiliation.

Executions carried out

Recent days have also seen the implementation of death sentences against prisoners in several Iranian prisons. According to the reports, a female prisoner was executed at Karaj Central Prison, while other executions were carried out at prisons in Maku, Adelabad, and Shiraz, in addition to the execution of a detainee in connection with the protests.

Executions also took place at prisons in Semnan, Dehdasht, Dezful, and Ilam. Reports indicated that two executions at Semnan Prison were carried out without prior notification to the prisoners’ families, raising human rights concerns over the transparency of execution procedures.

These developments from the implementation of flogging sentences and arrests to the denial of medical care, judicial rulings, and executions reflect the continuing pressure and human rights violations in Iran. Despite criticism and condemnations issued by human rights organizations, concerns remain over the limited practical measures being taken to curb these violations and safeguard the rights of detainees and prisoners.

ANHA