Amnesty International warning: Thousands at risk of execution in Iran
Amnesty International Warns of Escalating Execution Crisis in Iran
Amnesty International has raised alarm over what it describes as a deepening execution crisis in Iran, warning that “thousands of people are at risk of execution” and that the wave of death sentences and hangings by the Islamic Republic “has reached horrific proportions.”
In a letter datedSeptember 10, 2025, addressed toGholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, head of Iran’s judiciary, the human rights organization wrote:
Amnesty noted that since the2022 “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement, Iranian authorities have increasingly relied on the death penalty as a tool of repression. More than800 people have been executed since the beginning of 2025 alone.
Lack of Transparency and Broad Charges
Amnesty emphasized that Iranian authorities refuse to release official statistics on executions. As a result, the true number of those sentenced to death or facing capital charges remains unknown. Still, official statements suggest that the number is alarmingly high.
The letter warned that Revolutionary Courts, which oversee national security and drug-related cases, routinely conduct unfair trials and impose heavy sentences without judicial independence. Defendants are systematically denied their right to a fair trial.
Charges often include “enmity against God (moharebeh)” and “corruption on earth (efsad-e fel-arz),” terms Amnesty says are overly broad and inconsistent with international legal standards.
Mass Arrests and Rising Executions
The organization also pointed to thearrest of more than 20,000 peoplefollowing the 12-day conflict between Israel and the Islamic Republic. Hundreds of these detainees have been accused of espionage — charges that could carry the death penalty under the same vague legal provisions.
Recent reports highlighted theexecution of seven prisoners in Urmia and Ghezel Hesar prisons, while six others were transferred for imminent execution.
Expanding the Use of the Death Penalty
Amnesty drew attention to statements from judicial officials calling for “swift trials and harsh punishments, including executions,” particularly for those accused of supporting or collaborating with Israel.
The Iranian parliament has also passed new legislation that, if approved by the Guardian Council, would further expand the scope of the death penalty. Legal experts have already warned that this bill represents a “major disaster” in the making.
Amnesty International’s Demands
In its appeal to the judiciary chief, Amnesty International urged immediate and concrete action:
The letter also calls for the creation of an independent body to review death penalty cases.
Global Response
TheUnited Nationshas likewise urged Iran to halt its growing use of executions.
TheUnited Stateshas issued a separate warning to the Islamic Republic, demanding an end to the execution of protesters and political prisoners. Washington called on Tehran to stop repressing those who are peacefully demanding fundamental freedoms.