Highest Monthly Executions in Over Twenty Years

In October, with 178 executions, there was approximately one execution every 4 hours

Iran Human Rights Monitor (Iran HRM) presents a thorough analysis of the troubling state of executions in Iran during October 2024. This month witnessed a staggering total of 178 executions, marking it as the highest monthly count in over two decades. This report details the nature and context of these executions, highlighting alarming trends, including the execution of women, child offenders, and political prisoners, and calls for urgent action from the international community.

Total Number of Executions

October 2024 was characterized by a drastic escalation in executions in Iran, with 178 individuals executed throughout the month. This statistic translates to approximately one execution every 4 hours, emphasizing a relentless and ruthless application of the death penalty. The Iranian judiciary’s propensity to resort to capital punishment reflects a broader strategy to instill fear within the populace and maintain control over dissent.

The primary offenses leading to these executions include drug-related crimes, which continue to dominate the judicial landscape in Iran. Many of the executed individuals were convicted of drug trafficking and possession. However, critics argue that this focus on drug-related offenses often overlooks the socio-economic issues driving addiction and trafficking.