Iran Increases Executions amid Internet Censorship
The Islamic Republic of Iran has intensified its execution of dissidents and activists. The actual number of victims remains hidden due to the regime’s strict internet control. Since January’s uprisings, Tehran has aggressively targeted its opponents.
The Iran Human Rights Society reports 784 executions in 2026. A representative mentioned a sharp rise in executions since March, emphasizing a peak in political prisoners’ executions not seen in 37 years.
A woman places flowers for Iran’s execution victims in a Paris rally. (Siavosh Hosseini/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
A State Department official expressed concern over the execution surge. They condemned Iran’s use of executions against those exercising basic human rights. For years, Iranians have faced torture and sham trials, often with coerced confessions as the only evidence.
The National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) informed that Iran executed at least 18 prisoners from May 31 to June 1, with one being publicly hanged. The NCRI recorded 32 executions from March 19 to June 1, including members of the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) and January protesters.
Documents shared with Fox News Digital stated an imminent execution threat for five political prisoners in Ahvaz’s Sheiban Prison, four charged for PMOI/MEK affiliation. Maryam Rajavi, NCRI President-elect, urged the U.N. for intervention.
Rajavi condemned a recent execution, appealing to the U.N. Security Council and the European Union for decisive condemnation and action against these executions.
The Iran Human Rights Society confirmed recent executions between May 31 and June 1. Despite internet restrictions, they receive reports from a network of sources, ensuring verification through independent channels. However, internet restrictions hinder documentation efforts.
A hanging rope displayed during a Paris rally. (Siavosh Hosseini/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Alp Toker, NetBlocks director, highlighted internet connectivity in Iran remains limited post-protests. Users face slow international access, with increased filtering targeting messaging apps.
The Iran Human Rights Society’s representative emphasized the likelihood of higher execution numbers than reported. Many executions occur in secrecy, especially in remote areas lacking information, impacting documentation.
Dr. Mai Sato, U.N. Special Rapporteur on Iran’s human rights, did not comment on the execution spike.
On June 20th, up to 100,000 Iranian expats will rally in Paris to demand an end to executions. Over 100 lawmakers, officials, and ministers are expected to attend, according to the NCRI.
Beth Bailey, who reports on the Middle East and related regions, contributed this report. Follow her at @BWBailey85 for updates.