Iran’s escalating use of the death penalty, particularly in connection with recent protests and allegations of extracting coerced confessions, is raising serious international concerns. As of early 2026, the situation remains deeply troubling, with a significant increase in executions and a pattern of trials that fall short of international standards. You might potentially be wondering about the specifics of this crisis and what it means for human rights in the region.
The Surge in Executions and Coerced Confessions
In 2024,Iran carried out 975 executions,marking the highest number since 2015,according to a United Nations report. This alarming figure includes four public executions, a practice intended to instill fear. I’ve found that such displays frequently enough correlate with periods of heightened political tension and social unrest. Most executions are linked to drug-related offenses or murder,but a growing number are tied to security-related charges,frequently enough following trials criticized for their lack of due process.
the use of coerced confessions
to secure convictions is a particularly disturbing trend. Thes confessions, frequently obtained under duress and broadcast on state television, are then used to justify harsh sentences, including the death penalty. Thompson, a leading voice on the issue, has expressed grave concern
over this surge, highlighting the serious security-related offenses these confessions often involve.










