Monthly Report – October 2024: Human Rights Situation in Iran

HRANA – HRA’s Statistics Department has released its monthly report for October 2024, documenting persistent human rights abuses across Iran.

Executions: This month, 145 individuals were executed, including 137 men, 5 women, and 1 juvenile. Additionally, 11 new death sentences were issued. Many executions were related to drug offenses, directly contradicting the right to life under the ICCPR. Notable cases include 21-year-old Mehdi Brahui, executed on October 9, despite being a minor at the time of his alleged crime. On October 28, dual German-Iranian citizen Jamshid Sharmehed was executed for “corruption on earth,” a sentence that has strained EU-Iran relations.

Freedom of Thought and Expression: Iran continued to detain individuals for political and expressive activities. This month, 17 arrests and 5 trials were reported. Among them, six Azerbaijani activists were sentenced to a total of 53 years on charges of collusion, propaganda, and espionage. Women prisoners who protested an execution faced additional sentences. In a separate case, editor Mohammad Reza Saadi awaits sentencing after being charged with “propaganda” for criticizing Iran’s economy.

Prison Conditions: Prisoner mistreatment and neglect continue. There were 34 cases of medical neglect, and 10 detainees lacked communication access, leaving families uncertain of their fates. Mahmoud Dehmardeh, a death row inmate, died after delayed medical treatment, highlighting systemic medical neglect.

Women’s Rights: Women face continued repression. This month, two women were killed due to domestic violence, two were raped, and seven were detained for hijab violations. Cases include arrests over “immoral content” on Instagram, and a visually impaired woman was assaulted and murdered in Ardabil. In another case, a woman in Tehran suffered an acid attack following a dispute with a neighbor.

Labor Rights: Worker rights are precarious, with 68 work-related deaths and 126 injuries reported. Additionally, 737 workers reported unpaid wages, and recent protests led to arrests and harsh treatment of demonstrators. Two teenage fuel carriers were injured by a landmine, and two civilians were killed by military forces in Sarbisheh during indiscriminate shooting.

International Update: Iran featured in the UN’s recent report on reprisals, which noted threats, arrests, and surveillance of activists, especially those cooperating with the UN. The EU condemned the execution of Jamshid Sharmehed and called on Iran to halt executions and end detentions for political leverage.

Executions

This month in Iran, the execution of 145 individuals took place, comprising 137 men and 5 women, and 1 juvenile offender. A total of 11 individuals were sentenced to death. Iran persists in executing individuals for offenses falling short of the standards outlined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Notably, there remains a consistent trend of individuals being executed for drug-related crimes, a practice in clear contravention of the right to life as stipulated by the ICCPR. This month, 57 people were executed for drug-related offenses.

On October 9, 2024, Iranian authorities executed 21-year-old Mehdi Brahui in Zahedan Prison. Arrested at 17 for alleged involvement in a fatal group altercation in Khash, Brahui was convicted and sentenced to death by the Special Children’s Court of Sistan and Baluchistan Province. His execution, carried out despite international prohibitions against executing individuals for crimes committed as minors, has not been officially acknowledged by prison officials or relevant institutions.

Jamshid Sharmehed, a dual Iranian-German citizen, was executed on October 28, after being sentenced to death by the Tehran Revolutionary Court in March 2022 for “corruption on earth” and involvement in directing alleged terrorist acts. His sentence, upheld by the Supreme Court in May 2023, was executed, though the location was not disclosed. Sharmehed’s trial was held in Tehran’s Revolutionary Court, led by Judge Abolqasem Salavati. Iranian authorities previously identified Sharmehed as a leading figure in the “Thunder” group, which they accuse of anti-state activities. His daughter, Ghazaleh Sharmehed, reported restricted access to legal counsel and claimed he was held in solitary confinement under duress to sign documents. Sharmehed, who was born in 1955 and resided in the United States, had taken leadership of the Kingdom Assembly following the disappearance of its founder, though his connection to the group remains disputed.

In recent weeks, multiple executions have been carried out in Iran. Ten prisoners convicted of murder and drug-related charges were executed in Shiraz’s Adel Abad Prison, while two others faced the same fate in Tabriz and Jiroft prisons. Among those executed in Shiraz, Kazem Saadipour, Reza Namdari, and Hossein Heydari for drug-related offenses. Additional executions included Hadi Falah in Tabriz and Younes Akhtar Samar in Jiroft, both convicted of similar charges. Meanwhile, a prisoner in Bushehr was spared execution after the victim’s family consented to a reprieve, facilitated by efforts from local authorities and community leaders.

Freedom of Thought and Expression 

Iran continues to crack down on anyone who protests or criticizes the regime, persistently violating the right to freedom of expression and thought. This month alone, 17 individuals have been arrested related to freedom of expression, 5 trials, and 6 people were arrested without any judicial order. 

Six Azerbaijani (Turkish) activists—Kamal Nouri, Ayaz Seifkhah, Abdul Aziz Azimi Kadim, Baqer Hajizadeh, Hossein Piri, and Araz Aman—have been sentenced to a combined 53 years in prison by Tehran’s Revolutionary Court, specifically Branch 15, under Judge Abolqasem Salavati.

The sentences, issued on October 25, 2024, include:

  1. Hossein Piri: 5 years for assembly and collusion.
  2. Abdul Aziz Azimi Kadim: Charges of propaganda against the regime.
  3. Araz Aman, Ayaz Seifkhah, Baqer Hajizadeh: Each sentenced to 8 years for espionage and 5 years for assembly and collusion.
  4. Kamal Nouri: Sentenced to 3 years, with part of this term suspended.

Five female prisoners in Evin Prison—Varisheh Moradi, Paharhan Azizi, Mahbobeh Rezaei, Narges Mohammadi, and Paryosh Moslami—were collectively sentenced to 27 months and one day in prison in a recent joint case. The sentence was issued by Tehran’s Quds criminal court under Judge Abolfazl Ameri Shahrabi and delivered on October 28, 2024.

The verdict includes:

    1. Azizi, Rezaei, Mohammadi, and Moradi: Each sentenced to six months for conflict with agents and rebellion.
    2. Paryosh Moslami: Sentenced to three months and one day for the same charge; acquitted of disturbing prison order, as were the other defendants.

 

This case began on August 16 following protests by women prisoners after learning of Reza Rasaei’s execution. Following this protest, some prisoners faced additional restrictions, such as bans on phone calls and family visits. Only Moslami attended the court session, while the other defendants refused to appear.

Additionally, protestors of the 2022 nationwide protests continue to battle in court. Ayub Ghaibipour Hajior, detained during the 2022 nationwide protests in Iran, has had his 11-year prison sentence and exile to Kerman prison upheld by the Supreme Court. Originally sentenced by the Ahvaz Revolutionary Court for deliberate arson, destruction of public property, and propaganda against the regime—including allegedly burning a statue of Qasem Soleimani—his case was initially overturned and sent for re-examination but ultimately reaffirmed by the court.

Mr. Ghaibipour received 10 years for muharibeh (enmity against God) and an additional year for propaganda against the regime. He was arrested in November 2022 in Ahvaz, detained in Shiban prison, and later released on a substantial bail of three billion tomans. During his detention, he reportedly lacked adequate medical care.

Mohammad Reza Saadi, editor-in-chief of Jahan Sanat newspaper, was found guilty by Tehran’s Criminal Court of “propaganda against the Islamic Republic” after publishing an article critical of Iran’s economic instability amid tensions with Israel. The article, titled “Media Bombing of the Markets,” argued that economic weaknesses, such as a fragile stock market and currency devaluation, hinder Iran’s military capabilities. This led to charges of disrupting public psychological security and harming the economic atmosphere. While the court convicted Saadi, the jury recommended a lenient sentence, with the final decision pending.

Prison Conditions

In September, there were 34 cases of prisoners lacking medical care and there were 10  cases where no information about the person has been available after their arrest, leaving families in the dark about the prisoners’ fates due to a lack of contact. Furthermore, 24 prisoners have been transferred to solitary confinement, 9 prisoners have had no access to a lawyer, and 11 have gone on hunger strikes in protest of their conditions.

Javad Mohammadi Fard, a political prisoner in Urmia Prison, attempted suicide on October 2, reportedly due to untreated severe stomach issues and denial of medical leave. After his suicide attempt, prison authorities transferred him briefly to a psychiatric center before returning him to prison, where he remains in poor health. Despite suspicions of stomach cancer, he has been denied specialized medical treatment. Mohammadi Fard was arrested in July 2022, later sentenced to four years on security charges, with his appeal denied in February 2023.

Mahmoud Dehmardeh, a 41-year-old death row inmate in Zabul Prison, died of a heart attack on October 30 after reportedly being denied necessary medical care. Despite long-standing health issues, including diabetes and shoulder pain, prison officials allegedly resisted requests to transfer him to an external hospital for proper treatment. After his collapse in prison, he was taken to Amir al-Momenin Hospital, but it was too late, and his family was informed of his death by phone. Dehmardeh was arrested in 2019 on murder charges and later sentenced to death. His case highlights ongoing reports of medical neglect for prisoners, despite regulations ensuring their right to medical care.

Parham Parori, a detainee from the 2022 nationwide protests in Iran, is currently serving his sentence in Iranshahr Prison, where he has reportedly been subjected to violence due to a lack of separation from general crime inmates. His mother, Sarveh Sozani, reported that he was recently beaten by other prisoners, resulting in a fractured eye, six stitches, and severe burns from scalding tea.  Additionally, Matal Ahmadian, a 39-year-old political prisoner in Evin Prison, is in critical health, suffering from multiple conditions, including a duodenal ulcer, testicular infection, lumbar disc issues, and severe digestive problems. Despite medical recommendations for external treatment, Tehran’s prosecutor, Ali Salehi, has denied his transfer to a hospital, insisting on prison infirmary care. His health has deteriorated, causing severe heart palpitations and abdominal swelling. 

Women 

This month, 2 women were killed due to domestic violent, and 2 was raped and  7 cases of arresting women for hijab violation. Women continue to face harassment and arrests for not wearing hijab properly. 

The head of FATA police in Bushehr announced the arrest of seven women and teenage girls for allegedly producing and sharing “immoral advertising content” on Instagram. According to Mehdi Ghasemi, these individuals, part of a group engaged in a form of group sport “imitating foreign examples,” created and posted what authorities deemed “vulgar content” on Bushehr’s beaches. Following coordination with judicial authorities, the police blocked their Instagram pages, seized digital devices, and referred the women to judicial authorities. The identities and locations of those arrested were not disclosed.

In mid-October 2024, a 39-year-old visually impaired woman named Soraya was sexually assaulted and murdered in Ardabil, Iran. The assailant, her neighbor, allegedly entered her home disguised in a woman’s chador, waited for her return, and then attacked her. He was arrested days later and confessed to the crime during interrogation.

In Tehran, a 50-year-old woman was attacked with acid by her neighbor, Roya, following a dispute. The victim reported that ongoing disagreements escalated when Roya splashed acid on her after a confrontation. Although she received hospital treatment for severe burns, the victim is now pursuing legal action. Despite legislation introduced in 2018 to increase penalties for acid attacks, acid remains easily accessible in Iran, and incidents persist due to inadequate preventive measures and law enforcement. Authorities have initiated an investigation under Judge Azim Sohrabi to fully assess the case.

The police commander of Pardis city reported the arrest of a man who used female models to advertise joint pain treatments on Instagram, presenting himself as an orthopedic doctor. The authorities have blocked his Instagram page and sealed his business location. Although details of the charges and the individual’s whereabouts were not disclosed, a court case has been filed against him.

Workers 

Workers in Iran face ongoing challenges and hazardous workplaces. In a tragic turn of events, this month saw 68  fatalities resulting from work-related accidents, with an additional 126 workers left injured. Moreover, 737 workers reported unpaid wages. This month there were also 4 strikes and 91 worker gatherings. 

During a protest by Arghwan Gostar petrochemical workers in front of the Chavar courthouse in Ilam, two workers attempted self-immolation to protest their employment situation and the arrest of their colleagues. Among them was the father of one of the detained workers. The protest, held on October 7, 2024, gathered dozens of workers demanding the release of arrested colleagues and a resolution to ongoing job security issues. Arghwan Gostar workers have faced severe financial difficulties over the past three months, leading to recent protests during which several workers were reportedly arrested and taken to undisclosed locations.

In mid October , four workers from Toos Asphalt Company, a contractor for Chadormeloi Mine in Yazd, were arrested during a protest rally. The workers were demonstrating against unmet demands, and authorities issued bail for their temporary release. Additionally, several other workers received summonses via text message to appear before judicial authorities for questioning. The identities and current locations of those detained have not been disclosed. In recent days, Toos Asphalt workers have held several protest gatherings, urging that their grievances be addressed.

This month, 5 kulbars were killed, and 5 Sukhtbar were also killed. Two teenage fuel tankers, Shahram Shahnawazi, 17, and Ali Shahnawazi, 16, were injured in Mirjaveh city after an anti-personnel mine explosion on November 7, 2024. Reportedly planted by the IRGC, the mine caused neck and hand injuries to the teens. When border guards arrived at the Mirjaveh border post, the teens were beaten, and their vehicle was set on fire. 

Two citizens were killed in Sarbisheh city, South Khorasan province, following indiscriminate shooting by military forces.  One of the victims, identified as Iraj Sarani Mokher, 34, a married father of two, lost his life along with another individual when military personnel fired at their cars without prior warning approximately 20 kilometers from Sarbisheh’s center. One victim died instantly, while the other succumbed to injuries after being taken to Sarbisheh Hospital.

International News Update:

The UN Secretary-General’s report on reprisals against individuals cooperating with the United Nations highlighted 32 countries where incidents have been documented, including Iran. These reprisals often involve threats, arbitrary arrests, torture, and intimidation, especially toward activists, journalists, and human rights defenders. Despite legal protections, restrictive laws and surveillance continue to hinder cooperation with the UN. The report also addresses self-censorship due to fear of reprisal, noting an increase in anonymous cases to protect individuals. The UN remains committed to supporting safe engagement for civil society, with initiatives like the Agenda for Protection, which emphasizes safeguarding human rights defenders and vulnerable groups.

The European Union strongly condemned Iran’s execution of German-Iranian national Jamshid Sharmahd, offering condolences to his family and expressing solidarity with Germany. The EU criticized Sharmahd’s abduction and imprisonment without a fair trial, reaffirming its opposition to capital punishment. It also urged Iran to end detentions of foreign and dual nationals for political leverage and emphasized that these actions violate international law. The EU warned that this execution damages EU-Iran relations and is considering significant, targeted measures in response.

In a recent UK Parliament debate, MPs reaffirmed a commitment to imposing targeted sanctions on Iran focused on addressing human rights violations. The measures aim to deter Iran’s ongoing repression, including its treatment of women, religious minorities, and protestors. The government emphasized expanding sanctions to restrict key resources, enabling it to respond to Iran’s suppression of civil freedoms. These sanctions reflect the UK’s broader strategy of upholding human rights and opposing Iran’s internal abuses, while also working with international partners to enhance enforcement and support for those affected.

Download Full Pdf: Monthly Report October

Monthly Report – September 2024: Human Rights Situation in Iran

HRANA – HRA’s Statistics Department has released its monthly report for September 2024, highlighting ongoing human rights violations across Iran. This month, 66 individuals were executed, including 28 for drug-related crimes, and 10 individuals were newly sentenced to death. A significant number of executions remain unreported by Iranian authorities. Among the notable cases is Mohammad Javad Vafaei, who was sentenced to death for the third time, despite previous Supreme Court rulings overturning his sentences. Political prisoners such as Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hosni also faced capital punishment under charges like “treason” and “corruption on earth,” while six prisoners were executed in Zahedan prison for non-political crimes.

Freedom of expression continues to be severely restricted, with 51 individuals arrested this month. Among them was journalist Mehta Sadri, fined for “propaganda against the regime” after making statements about Ebrahim Raisi’s death. Additionally, security forces prevented Mahsa Amini’s family from holding a commemoration on the second anniversary of her death, leading to widespread strikes in Kurdish cities.

Prison conditions remain a serious concern. 25 cases of medical neglect were reported, with 13 prisoners left in limbo without updates following their arrests. Political prisoners like Maryam Mehrabi began hunger strikes in protest of mistreatment, while others, including Meisham Dehbanzadeh, suffered permanent injuries from abuse by prison guards.

Women’s rights violations continued under Iran’s “Operation Noor,” with 6 women killed, one sentenced to death, and several detained for violating hijab laws. A 17-year-old girl tragically died after setting herself on fire in protest of a forced marriage. In addition, three medical centers in Mahabad were shut down for performing unauthorized abortions.

Labor conditions worsened, with 72 fatalities and 84 injuries reported from work-related accidents. An explosion at the Tabas coal mine led to 51 deaths, raising concerns about safety regulations in Iran’s mining industry. Border workers, including Kulbars and fuel carriers, faced violence, with 5 deaths and 8 injuries reported from military force confrontations.

On the international front, UN experts and the U.S., Australia, and Canada imposed sanctions on Iranian officials for human rights violations. The sanctions targeted individuals responsible for torture, suppression of dissent, and denial of medical care in prisons. These nations condemned Iran’s escalating executions and urged a halt to its misuse of the death penalty, particularly against ethnic minorities like Kurds and Baluchis.

Executions

This month in Iran, the execution of 66 individuals took place, comprising 60 men and 6 where the gender of the individual is unknown. A total of 10 individuals were sentenced to death. Iran persists in executing individuals for offenses falling short of the standards outlined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Notably, there remains a consistent trend of individuals being executed for drug-related crimes, a practice in clear contravention of the right to life as stipulated by the ICCPR. This month, 28 people were executed for drug-related offenses.

In one week, at an alarming rate, 15 prisoners, including two Afghan nationals, were executed in Iran for charges related to murder and drug crimes. Fourteen executions took place in Adel Abad prison in Shiraz, and one in Gorgan prison. Among those executed were “Yasin Darvishi,” a 21-year-old sentenced to death for murder in Gorgan. The identities of other executed prisoners include “Amir Naderzadeh,” “Sajjad Fadaei,” and several others.. Iranian prison officials have not publicly confirmed these executions as of this report.

Mohammad Javad Vafaei, a political prisoner in Vakil Abad Prison, Mashhad, has been sentenced to death for the third time by the Revolutionary Court of Mashhad. Previously, he was twice sentenced to death, but both rulings were overturned by the Supreme Court, leading to retrials. Vafaei, a 28-year-old boxing coach, was initially arrested in 2018 and charged with “corruption on earth” for alleged destruction of property. Despite two successful appeals, he has again been sentenced to death after the third trial, with the court opposing the Supreme Court’s previous rulings. This sentence can be appealed. Although a heavy bail was set for temporary release, Vafaei was unable to provide it.

Political prisoners Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hosni have been sentenced to death by Judge Iman Afshari, head of Branch 26 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court. The charges against Ehsani and Hosni include “treason, war, corruption on earth, membership in the Mujahideen, gathering classified information, and collusion against national security.” Both men were arrested in 2022—Ehsani at his home in Tehran and Hosni while attempting to leave the country in Zanjan. They were subsequently transferred to Evin Prison and held for months without clarity on their cases.

On September 19, six prisoners sentenced to death for non-political crimes, primarily related to drug offenses, were executed in Zahedan prison. HRANA confirmed the identity of these individuals: Saied Hassanzahi, a 30-year-old father of three from Zahedan; an individual with the surname Rudini, also from Zahedan; Noor Mohammad Nouri, an Afghan national; and Farzad Sancholi, a 29-year-old father of three from Zabul. These prisoners were transferred to the prison’s quarantine ward on Saturday evening and allowed a final meeting with their families before the executions.

Saied Hassanzahi was arrested in 2020 on drug-related charges and sentenced to death by the Zahedan Revolutionary Court. Noor Mohammad Nouri was arrested in August 2022 at a border terminal in Zabul and sentenced to death by the Revolutionary Court of Zabul. Farzad Sancholi was arrested in Zabul four years ago on similar charges and sentenced to death shortly thereafter. He had been transferred to Zahedan prison two years ago.

 

Freedom of Thought and Expression 

Iran continues to crack down on anyone who protests or criticizes the regime, persistently violating the right to freedom of expression and thought. This month alone, 51 individuals have been arrested related to freedom of expression, 5 trials, and 3 cases of assault and battery by police. 24 people were arrested without any judicial order. 

This month, journalist Mehta Sadri, manager of the Gilan Sadr analytical news site, was sentenced to pay a fine instead of serving a six-month prison term. She was charged with propaganda against the regime and publishing false information intended to disturb public opinion, following her comments on the death of Ebrahim Raisi. While she was acquitted of the falsehood charges, she was fined six million Tomans for the charge of propaganda against the regime.

Sadri stated that her arrest resulted from “media work and the atmosphere created by extremist organizations and groups” in Gilan province. She also faced certain restrictions during the legal proceedings, although further details were not provided.

On the second anniversary of Mehsa (Zina) Amini’s death, security forces prevented her family from holding a commemoration and visiting her grave. Security forces blocked Amini’s family from attending her grave and instructed them not to leave their residence. Additionally, access roads to Aichi’s tomb in Saqqez, where Amini is buried, were closed to prevent any ceremonies. In response to these restrictions, strikes were observed in several Kurdish cities, including Sanandaj, Saqqez, Diwandara, Marivan, Mahabad, Bukan, Ashnoye, and Piranshahr. Amjad Amini, Mehsa Amini’s father, expressed gratitude for the support shown through the strikes.Meanwhile, Mehsa Amini’s mother, Mozhgan Eftekhari, commemorated the victims of the 2022 nationwide protests on her Instagram account, marking the anniversary of her daughter’s death.Reports also surfaced that local marketers were threatened by authorities to reopen their shops after participating in the strike.

On the eve of the second anniversary of Mahsa (Zina) Amini’s death, 14 teachers’ union activists were summoned to the Sanandaj Public Prosecutor’s Office. According to Harana News Agency, citing the Coordinating Council of Iran’s Educators’ Trade Union Organizations, the activists were called in on charges including gathering and collusion against national security, propaganda against the Islamic Republic of Iran, and disrupting public order. The activists summoned include Mohammad Reza Moradi, Aram Ebrahimi, Sadeq Kanani, Ghiyath Nemati, Nasrin Karimi, Majid Karimi, Salah Haji Mirzaei, Fateme Zand Karimi, Koresh Ezzati, Faisal Nouri, Reza Tahmasabi, Shahriar Naderi, Behzad Qavami, and Rozgar Heydari. These union members have a history of arrests and legal encounters due to their activities and advocacy efforts.

Eight political defendants, including Nasim Gholami Simiari, Hamidreza Sahlabadi, Ehsan Ravazzhian, Amin Sokhnour, Amir Shah Velayati, Ali Herati Mokhtari, Shahin Zhamt Kash, and Hossein Mohammad Hosseini, were sentenced by the Tehran Revolutionary Court to a combined total of 42 years and 3 months in prison, 25 years of exile, and 74 lashes. The court was presided over by Judge Iman Afshari.

The specific sentences are as follows:

– Nasim Gholami Simiari: 6 years in prison, 74 lashes, and 20 years of exile.

– Amin Sokhnour: 7 years and 7 months in prison.

– Hamidreza Sahlabadi: 3 years and 7 months in prison, plus 5 years of exile.

– Ehsan Ravazzhian: 6 years and 7 months in prison.

– Ali Herati Mokhtari: 3 years and 6 months in prison.

– Shahin Zhamt Kash: 11 years in prison.

– Amir Shah Velayati and Hossein Mohammad Hosseini: Both originally sentenced to 2 years in prison, which were later reduced to fines (80 million Tomans and 165 million Tomans, respectively).

 All defendants were charged with crimes such as conspiracy, collusion, and actions against the regime. One of the accused, Hossein Ardestani, was acquitted, while two others, Siamak Tedin and Farid Golshani, remain fugitives, and their cases remain open.The court hearings for this case took place in July and August, and the arrests were carried out over a period between May and August 2022 by security forces, including the IRGC.

 

Prison Conditions

In August, there were 25 cases of prisoners lacking medical care and there were 10  cases where no information about the person has been available after their arrest, leaving families in the dark about the prisoners’ fates due to a lack of contact. Meanwhile, 3 prisoners have been deprived of any form of contact and 4 have had their visitation rights prevented. Furthermore, 38 prisoners have been transferred to solitary confinement, 10 prisoners have had no access to a lawyer, and 4 have gone on hunger strikes in protest of their conditions.

Maryam Mehrabi, a teacher imprisoned in Dolat Abad Prison in Isfahan, has begun a hunger strike while being held in solitary confinement. She is protesting against mental pressure, poor physical conditions, and being separated from her children. Mehrabi has been hospitalized several times, and her family’s concerns have grown due to the lack of communication with her. She was arrested on June 29, and this is her second detention, following a previous arrest in 2022 related to her brother’s case. She had been sentenced to 74 lashes and three months in prison, later converted to a fine.

Meisham Dehbanzadeh, a political prisoner serving his sentence in Qazalhasar Prison in Karaj, has suffered permanent damage to the nerves in his left eye after being beaten by prison guards last year. Following the assault, in which he was beaten on the head with a baton and handcuffed to a bar for a day, doctors have now confirmed that his vision in the left eye cannot be restored. Dehbanzadeh was transferred to the hospital due to vision problems and frequent headaches, but his condition is deemed untreatable.

Dehbanzadeh, sentenced to six years in prison and 74 lashes for property destruction, is facing increased concern from his family about his physical condition. In addition to his original sentence, he was later sentenced to 16 months in prison and 74 lashes for disobeying prison officers. He was briefly released in June 2022 following an amnesty decree but is now back in prison facing ongoing health challenges.

Samman Yasin, a political prisoner in Qazalhasar prison, continues to suffer from untreated physical and mental health issues. Despite his poor condition and the need for specialized medical care, he has not been allowed to receive treatment outside the prison. Yasin was arrested during the 2022 nationwide protests and initially sentenced to death for charges including “waging war against God” and actions against national security. Although his death sentence was overturned, his case remains unresolved. He faces poor prison conditions and inadequate healthcare. 

Mehnaz Tarrah, a political prisoner in Evin Prison, attempted suicide by ingesting pills.  She was taken to Loghman Hospital but was returned to the prison shortly after. Tarrah’s suicide attempt was in protest against the death sentence issued to another political prisoner, Pakhshan Azizi. Tarrah was previously arrested in November 2023 and sentenced to nearly three years in prison for charges including collusion and propaganda against the regime.

Women 

This month, 6 women were killed, and 1 was raped and 1 was sentenced to death. Women continue to face harassment and arrests for not wearing hijab properly. 

After a video surfaced showing several teenage girls without hijabs during Ashura mourning processions in Karaj, the police chief of Alborz province, Hamid Hedavand, announced that the girls had been summoned by authorities. Hedavand referred to them as violators, claiming that their actions had “hurt the feelings of mourners.” The investigation was launched after the video went viral on social media.

Two months after 14-year-old Nafas Haji Sharif was assaulted by security forces for not wearing a hijab, her family’s legal complaint remains unresolved. Despite the severity of the case, there has been no progress in holding the perpetrators accountable, while a case against an officer who claimed injury during the incident has been fast-tracked. Nafas continues to face psychological trauma and threats from authorities following the incident.

Three medical centers in Mahabad were shut down for allegedly performing abortions without authorization. This action was part of a broader government effort to combat population decline, according to the head of Mahabad’s health department, Kamran Alizadeh. The crackdown on these centers is linked to stricter policies on reproductive rights, which activists argue violate women’s autonomy and could increase unsafe, underground procedures, threatening women’s health.

A 17-year-old girl in Iranshahr, who had been forced into marriage by her family, died from severe injuries after setting herself on fire in protest of the marriage. Despite warning her family that she would resort to such measures, they dismissed her concerns, assuming she would eventually accept the marriage. This tragic incident highlights the persistent issues surrounding child marriage in Iran and the devastating consequences it can have on young girls’ lives.

This month HRA published a report detailing the rise of women’s activism in Iran amidst increasing hostility from the government. Women are at the forefront of resistance, challenging gender-based discrimination and systemic oppression. Despite heightened repression, including arrests, imprisonment, and harsh crackdowns, these activists continue to fight for equality and justice. The government’s efforts to silence dissent have only intensified the resolve of these women. The article emphasizes their resilience, courage, and determination, with many declaring that while their bodies may be imprisoned, their quest for justice cannot be suppressed.

Workers 

Workers in Iran face ongoing challenges and hazardous workplaces. In a tragic turn of events, this month saw 72  fatalities resulting from work-related accidents, with an additional 84 workers left injured. Moreover, 10995 workers reported unpaid wages. This month there were also 5 strikes and 151 worker gatherings. 

An explosion in the Tabas coal mine, caused by a methane gas leak, has resulted in at least 51 fatalities and 20 injuries. Rescue teams, including over 130 personnel and multiple ambulances, responded to the disaster. The blast occurred in two sections of the mine, trapping and injuring many workers. The lack of safety standards and technical issues in the mine’s ventilation system are cited as the main causes of the accident. This incident has led to widespread criticism of safety regulations in Iran’s mining industry.

In September 2024, several tragic incidents involving arms law violations and border workers took place in Iran, particularly affecting Kulbars and fuel carriers. In Nosoud, a Kulbar named Kamran Abbasi was shot by military forces while attempting to transport goods across the border. As a result, he suffered serious injuries after falling from a height. This case underscores the ongoing violence faced by these laborers who are forced to risk their lives due to lack of economic opportunities.

Another incident occurred in Hirmand, where Nader Dahmarde, a farmer, was fatally shot by border patrol officers while working in his field. Despite posing no threat, Dahmarde was targeted by security forces and later succumbed to his injuries. His death highlights the frequent use of excessive force by Iranian authorities in border regions, where civilians are often caught in violent confrontations between security forces and border workers.

In addition to these fatalities, several fuel carriers in the Baneh and Saqqez regions were shot and injured by border guards. These workers, who transport fuel across borders for a living, often face similar risks as Kulbars, being regularly targeted by military forces. The month of September saw 5 fatalities, including 4 fuel carriers and 1 Kulbar, and 8 injuries, illustrating the persistent dangers these vulnerable groups face due to the harsh enforcement of border regulations.


International News Update:

UN experts have voiced alarm over a sharp rise in executions in Iran, particularly among ethnic minorities like Kurds and Baluchis. They highlighted that many executions follow trials lacking due process and include non-violent crimes, such as drug offenses. The experts are calling for an immediate moratorium on the death penalty and urging Iran to review death penalty cases in line with international human rights standards. They stressed that the death penalty is being misused as a tool of repression against marginalized groups.

The U.S., in collaboration with Australia and Canada, imposed sanctions on several Iranian officials for their roles in human rights violations, particularly related to the suppression of protests and violence against women. These sanctions were announced around the second anniversary of Mahsa (Gina) Amini’s death, following her arrest by the morality police. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong sanctioned five senior Iranian officials, while Canada issued a statement condemning Iran’s repressive actions. This coordinated effort underscores the three nations’ commitment to confronting Iran’s oppressive policies and supporting human rights.

These sanctions also specifically target officials in Iranian prison systems who are responsible for human right abuses in prison, including the use of torture and sexual assaults against prisoners, the denial of medical care to political prisoners, the violent suppression of protesters protesting their conditions, and the kidnapping of regime critics abroad. 

  • Ali Abdi: General Office of Prisons Organization in Khorasan Razavi Province
  • Ahmad Reza Azadeh: Head of Sepidar Prison
  • Mostafa Bazvand: Commander of the IRGC and Basij Resistance Force in Mazandaran province’s Babolsar county
  • Alireza Babaei Farsani: Director-General of Isfahan Province Prisons
  • Hamid Khorramdel: Commander of the IRGC’s Fatah Corps of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province
  • Gholamreza Roshan: Director General of Prisons in Khuzestan Province
  • Ali Jume Malek Shahkouie: Commander of the IRGC’s Golestan Corps of Golestan province

 

 

Download Full Pdf: Monthly Report September

Monthly Report – August 2024: Human Rights Situation in Iran

HRANA – HRA’s Statistics Department has released its monthly report for August 2024, highlighting ongoing human rights violations across Iran. This month, 92 individuals were executed, comprising 68 men and 24 whose gender is unknown. A total of 14 individuals were sentenced to death, underscoring a persistent use of capital punishment in Iran, often for offenses that do not meet international standards, notably drug-related crimes. This practice starkly contradicts the right to life as articulated in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Notably, 45 people were executed for drug-related offenses this month.

On a single day, 22 prisoners were executed in Qazalhisar prison in Karaj for crimes including murder, drug-related crimes, and rape. Among them were six individuals sentenced to death for drug-related offenses: Ismail Sharfi, Mohammad Gholami, Abdullah Shahnawazi, Shahab Maleki, Rasul (last name unknown), and Ghanbari (first name unknown). These prisoners were placed in solitary confinement in their final days, and their families were summoned for final goodbyes. Additionally, one protester from the 2022 nationwide protests, Reza Rasaei, was executed on August 6, 2024, for a non-violent crime, with the conviction reportedly based on forced confessions.

Freedom of expression remains severely curtailed, with 25 individuals arrested in relation to this issue during August. This includes the arrest of journalist Omid Pahuda, who was sentenced to six months in prison on charges of propaganda against the regime. Additionally, two prominent journalists, Niloufer Hamedi and Elaha Mohammadi, had their sentences reduced by the Tehran Court of Appeal to six years each after initially receiving a combined 25-year sentence. Both journalists were initially charged for their reporting related to the death of Mahsa Amini and played significant roles in the subsequent protests.

Prison conditions remain dire, with 47 cases of medical neglect reported and 21 cases where no information about the person has been available after their arrest. Political prisoners like Sara Jahani, a women’s rights activist suffering from multiple sclerosis, continue to face severe mistreatment, including denial of necessary medical care despite serious health conditions. Additionally, a prisoner named Ruhullah Mohammadi died in Urmia prison due to delayed medical attention, highlighting the life-threatening neglect faced by prisoners in Iran.

Women’s rights violations persist under Iran’s “Operation Noor,” with several incidents of violence and arrests for non-compliance with mandatory hijab laws. This month, eight women were killed and six were raped. Notably, Arezou Badri, a 31-year-old woman from Noor city, was shot by police for hijab-related issues, leaving her with severe injuries and possible paralysis. Two teenage girls in Tehran were also violently assaulted and arrested under the same crackdown.

Workers in Iran endure hazardous conditions, with 41 fatalities and 60 injuries recorded from work-related accidents in August. Additionally, over 3,640 workers reported unpaid wages, exacerbating economic hardships in the face of unsafe working environments. Alireza Abdullahzadeh, a worker at a petrochemical plant in Khuzestan, died from heatstroke due to extreme working conditions. In addition, military forces shot and injured at least four Kolbers (border porters) in the “Henge Jhal” border area of Baneh city.

This report underscores ongoing human rights abuses in Iran, including executions without transparency, suppression of dissent, dire prison conditions, systematic violations of women’s rights, and unsafe labor practices, warranting urgent international attention and action.

Executions

This month in Iran, the execution of 92 individuals took place, comprising 68 men and 24 where the gender of the individual is unknown. A total of 14 individuals were sentenced to death. Iran persists in executing individuals for offenses falling short of the standards outlined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Notably, there remains a consistent trend of individuals being executed for drug-related crimes, a practice in clear contravention of the right to life as stipulated by the ICCPR. This month, 45 people were executed for drug-related offenses.

This month, in one day 22 prisoners were executed, for crimes including murder, drug-related crimes and rape in in Qazalhisar prison in Karaj.  The identity of six of these prisoners who were sentenced to death due to charges related to drug crimes, Ismail Sharfi, Mohammad Gholami, Abdullah Shahnawazi, Shahab Maleki, Rasul (unknown last name) and (unknown first name) Ghanbari. On their last days they were sent to solitary confinement and their families were told to come to say their final goodbyes. 

Additionally, one of the protestors of the 2022 nationwide protests was executed on August 6th, 2024. Reza Rasaei was charged with a non-violent crime and the judge relied on forced confessions in order to reach a conviction. 

The Supreme Court of Iran has confirmed the death sentences of six political prisoners—Malik Ali Fadaei Nasab, Farhad Shakri, Isa Eidmohammadi, Abdul Hakim Azim Gergij, Abdul Rahman Gergij, and Taj Mohammad Kharmali—who are currently imprisoned in Vakil Abad Prison in Mashhad. These prisoners were initially sentenced to death in 2018 by the Mashhad Revolutionary Court on charges of “treason” related to their alleged membership in the Salafi group Hezb al-Furqan and the Sunni National Solidarity Front of Iran. Although their sentences were initially overturned by the Supreme Court for re-examination, the Revolutionary Court reissued the death sentences after a retrial in August 2023. The case was then reviewed and confirmed by Branch 39 of the Supreme Court. A source close to the prisoners’ families highlighted severe flaws in the case and reported instances of torture, including the use of pepper spray on one prisoner, which have left lasting effects on their bodies.

Kamran Sheikhe, a Sunni prisoner, was executed in Urmia prison on Thursday, August 4, after spending over fourteen years in imprisonment. He was the last of seven Sunni religious prisoners who were sentenced to death in a joint case and have all now been executed. The group was originally arrested in connection with the murder of a teacher named Abdul Rahim Tina in 2007. Their death sentences were issued by Branch 28 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court, led by Judge Mohammad Moqiseh, and later reaffirmed by Branch 15 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court under Judge Abolqasem Salavati, despite a temporary overturning by the Supreme Court. The six other prisoners—Qasim Abasteh, Ayoub Karimi, Dawood Abdulahi, Farhad Salimi, Anwar Khezri, and Khosro Besharat—were executed earlier this year and in late 2022 in Qazalhasar and Urmia prisons, concluding the case with Sheikhe’s execution.

 

Freedom of Thought and Expression 

Iran continues to crack down on anyone who protests or criticizes the regime, persistently violating the right to freedom of expression and thought. This month alone, 25 individuals have been arrested related to freedom of expression, 11 trials, and 2 cases of assault and battery by police. 

This month 3 journalists were convicted. Omid Pahuda was sentenced to six months in prison on the charge of propaganda against the regime.

Niloufer Hamedi and Elaha Mohammadi, two Iranian journalists, were initially sentenced to a total of 25 years in prison by the Tehran Revolutionary Court for charges including “collaborating with a hostile foreign government” (the United States), “gathering and collusion against the security of the country,” and “propaganda activity against the regime.” However, the Tehran Court of Appeal reduced their sentences to six years each. They were acquitted of the charge of collaboration with the U.S., but their sentences of five years for “gathering and collusion” and one year for “propaganda against the regime” were upheld.

Their lawyers expressed hope that the remaining charges would be pardoned under the 2022 amnesty directive, as both journalists meet the conditions for amnesty. Hamedi was originally charged after publishing a photo of Mahsa Amini in a coma, while Mohammadi reported on Amini’s death, both of which played a significant role in the protests that followed. After spending time in Qarchak and Evin prisons, both journalists were released on bail in December 2022. However, a new case was later opened against them, reportedly related to the hijab issue.

On Tuesday, August 9, Ahmad Hassanzadeh and Solmaz Hassanzadeh, the father and sister of Mohammad Hassanzadeh—a victim of the 2022 nationwide protests in Iran—were arrested by security forces in Bukan. According to reports, they were detained at their home, where they were also subjected to beatings. The security forces confiscated their mobile phones and those of other family members. The arrests are believed to be connected to the family’s attempt to hold a ceremony in honor of Mohammad Hassanzadeh’s birthday. As of now, there is no information on their whereabouts or the charges against them. Previously, both Ahmad and Solmaz were summoned and interrogated by the Bukan Intelligence Department, and Solmaz was briefly detained at a checkpoint in October last year. Mohammad Hassanzadeh, aged 28, was shot during the 2022 protests.

Prison Conditions

In August, there were 47 cases of prisoners lacking medical care and there were 21 cases where no information about the person has been available after their arrest, leaving families in the dark about the prisoners’ fates due to a lack of contact. Meanwhile, 49 prisoners have been deprived of any form of contact and 47 have had their visitation rights prevented. Furthermore, 38 prisoners have been transferred to solitary confinement, 5 prisoners have had no access to a lawyer, and 0 have gone on hunger strikes in protest of their conditions.

Sara Jahani, a women’s rights activist imprisoned in Lakan prison in Rasht, is being denied specialized medical treatment despite her deteriorating health. Jahani, who suffers from multiple sclerosis (MS), recently experienced a severe muscle spasm that caused her to fall in the prison bathroom, further aggravating her physical condition. Despite her need for hospital care and specialized treatment, prison authorities have refused to transfer her to a medical facility. This is not the first time Jahani has faced such neglect; a previous incident resulted in a tear and bleeding above her eye.

Jahani was arrested on August 8, 2023, and transferred to Lakan prison to serve her sentence, despite her medical condition. She was initially detained by security forces in August 2022 in Gilan province and was later sentenced to six years, one month, and seventeen days in prison for charges related to “membership in a group and society” and “collusion with the aim of disrupting national security.” Her case, along with those of ten other women’s rights activists in Gilan, was confirmed by the Court of Appeal in June 2023. Although her prison sentence was temporarily postponed in late July due to her medical condition, Jahani remains in prison without proper medical care, exacerbating her already serious health issues.

A prisoner named Ruhullah Mohammadi, aged 48, died in Urmia prison on Tuesday, August 16, due to a delay in receiving necessary medical attention. Mohammadi, who was serving time for non-political crimes, fell ill and was taken to the prison hospital. Despite the prison doctor’s recommendation that he be transferred to an external hospital for further treatment, the transfer did not occur in time. The prison authorities reported that Mohammadi suffered a fatal heart attack before he could be sent to the hospital, highlighting the severe consequences of inadequate medical care in Iranian prisons.

More than a week after the death of Seyyed Mohammad Mirmusavi in a police station in Lahijan, Iran’s police command issued a notice attributing his death to the “lack of control of anger and emotions” by police officers, who allegedly beat him during his arrest. The police claimed Mirmusavi was confrontational and disobedient, leading to the altercation. The announcement followed reports that Mirmusavi’s body showed signs of severe beating, and possibly a gunshot wound. In response, five police officers were arrested, and involved agents were suspended. Despite the ongoing investigation, details remain scarce, adding to concerns over the increasing number of suspicious deaths in police custody in Iran.

 

Women 

This month, 8 women were killed, and 6 were raped. Women continue to face harassment and arrests for not wearing hijab properly. 

Several more incidents have occurred as part of a broader crackdown under Iran’s “Noor” plan, launched on April 25 to enforce the mandatory hijab more strictly. Since its implementation, there have been numerous reports of violent actions and arrests targeting women who do not comply with these requirements.

On June 21, two teenage girls in Tehran were violently assaulted and arrested by agents enforcing the “Noor Plan,” a crackdown on women who do not comply with mandatory hijab regulations. The girls were taken to the Morality Police in a white van, where one of them, 14-year-old Nafas Haji-Sharif, sustained serious injuries, including a bruised face, swollen lips, and a bruised neck. According to Nafas’s mother, Maryam Abbasi, her daughter was beaten by the agents, who dragged her by the hair and slammed her head into an electric post. Despite providing evidence, including CCTV footage, Abbasi’s complaints have been dismissed by authorities. The Morality Police have claimed that a female officer was injured during the altercation and have warned Abbasi against pursuing legal action. 

Arezou Badri, a 31-year-old woman from Noor city in Mazandaran province, was shot by police about ten days ago while driving, due to issues related to the mandatory hijab. The incident left her severely injured, with significant damage to her lungs and spinal cord. Arezou currently has no sensation from the waist down, and it is uncertain whether she will be completely paralyzed.

The shooting occurred after her car was impounded for not complying with the mandatory hijab regulations. Although doctors managed to remove the bullet from her back, her injuries are severe, and her long-term prognosis remains unclear.

Workers 

Workers in Iran face ongoing challenges and hazardous workplaces. In a tragic turn of events, this month saw 41 fatalities resulting from work-related accidents, with an additional 60 workers left injured. Moreover, 3640  workers reported unpaid wages. This month there were also 23 strikes and 1055 people dismissed from their work.

Alireza Abdullahzadeh, a worker at a petrochemical plant in Khuzestan died from heatstroke due to extreme working conditions, including temperatures over 50 degrees Celsius and humidity above 90 percent. Abdullahzadeh suffered a seizure and lost vital signs before reaching the hospital. The harsh environment in oil-rich regions, exacerbated by polluted air from petrochemical complexes, poses significant risks to workers. This occurrence, along with others, emphasizes the need for protective measures, such as shorter working hours, increased rest periods, and access to water and shade, to ensure worker safety.

Security forces searched the home of labor activist Ismail Garami, seizing personal and digital devices, including his laptop, mobile phone, and national ID card. This search occurred on Wednesday, August 17. Alongside the search, Garami was summoned to appear at the Shahid Moghads courthouse (Evin) within five working days. Previously, in July, he was fined by Branch 1027 of Tehran Criminal Court. Garami has a history of arrests and legal issues related to his activism, including a brief arrest during a retirees’ protest in Tehran.

At least six protest rallies were held recently across Iran. These included protests by:

  1. Pars Wagon factory workers in Arak: Workers protested the lack of attention to their demands, particularly the equalization of wages. They noted that the factory was closed after their earlier protest, and their demands remain unmet. The factory’s CEO mentioned financial difficulties, only offering limited support to workers with medical issues.
  2. Farmers in Kermanshah: Farmers gathered in front of the provincial governor’s building to protest the non-payment for their wheat and frequent power cuts affecting their agricultural wells.
  3. Nurses at Valiasr Noorabad Mamsani Hospital and Tabriz Health Hospital: Nurses protested at their workplaces, demanding tariff reforms, the elimination of mandatory overtime, and increased pay for overtime work.
  4. Workers and drivers of Ilam municipality’s urban services: They protested the non-payment of their salaries and several months of arrears.
  5. Victims of the Mehr Pardis residential units project in Tehran: These individuals protested in front of the army headquarters, expressing frustration over the unresolved issues related to their investments in a housing project supervised by the army, which has been ongoing for three years.

Each group expressed dissatisfaction with unaddressed grievances, ranging from unpaid wages to unmet housing promises.

On Thursday, August 18, military forces shot and injured at least four Kolbers (border porters) in the “Henge Jhal” border area of Baneh city . The identity of one injured Kolber, named Kamal (surname unknown), has been reported.

International News Update:

The Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran reported that ethnic and religious minorities, especially Kurds and Baluch, have been disproportionately impacted by the government’s crackdown since the 2022 protests. The report details severe human rights violations, including unlawful killings, torture, rape, and gender persecution—many of which may constitute crimes against humanity. Children from these communities suffered particularly harsh abuses.

The protests, triggered by the death of Jina Mahsa Amini, saw significant participation from minorities already facing poverty and discrimination. The state’s militarized response in minority regions resulted in the highest death tolls. Security forces carried out mass arrests, subjecting detainees to torture and sexual violence, with unfair trials leading to a surge in executions.

The Mission highlighted that these actions intersected with ethnic, religious, and gender-based persecution. Despite the gravity of these violations, there has been no accountability for high-ranking officials. The Mission called for comprehensive reparations and accountability at national and international levels to protect the rights of victims, particularly women and children from minority groups.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, voiced alarm over Iran’s execution of at least 29 people in just two days, contributing to a total of 345 executions this year, including 15 women. Many were convicted of drug-related offenses, which do not meet international standards for the death penalty. Concerns were also raised about the lack of fair trials and the disproportionate impact on ethnic minorities like Kurds, Ahwazi Arabs, and Baluch. The UN urged Iran to impose a moratorium on executions and move towards abolishing the death penalty.

UN human rights experts have raised urgent concerns over the denial of necessary medical care to Iranian human rights defender Narges Mohammadi and other detainees. Mohammadi, who suffers from severe back and knee pain, was reportedly subjected to physical violence in Evin Prison, leading to further injuries. Despite her requests for legal and medical assistance, these were denied by prison authorities.

The experts emphasized that denying medical care to prisoners could amount to torture and inhuman treatment, which are absolute violations of international human rights law. They also highlighted a troubling pattern of ill-treatment in Iranian prisons, calling for the immediate release of Mohammadi and other arbitrarily detained individuals, including Fatemeh Sepehri and Reza Shahabi Zakaria, who also need urgent medical attention. The experts urged Iran to uphold its obligations under international human rights agreements.

 

Download Full Pdf: Monthly Report August

Monthly Report – July 2024: Human Rights Situation in Iran

HRANA – HRA’s Statistics Department has released its monthly report for July 2024, highlighting ongoing human rights violations across Iran. This month, 43 individuals were executed, comprising 36 men and 2 women, with only a few executions officially reported. Alongside these executions, 14 individuals were sentenced to death, underscoring a persistent use of capital punishment in Iran, often for offenses that do not meet international standards, notably drug-related crimes. This practice starkly contradicts the right to life as articulated in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). 

Freedom of expression remains severely curtailed, with 144 individuals arrested in relation to this issue during July. Among them was Iranian singer Shervin Hajipour, who was summoned to serve his prison sentence for his song “Brai,” which led to charges of “propaganda against the regime” and “inciting people to disturbances.” Additionally, journalists and activists such as Salahuddin Khalaj Asadi faced harsh penalties, with Asadi receiving a sentence of 40 lashes for insulting a government official. The Court of Appeals upheld a two-year prison sentence and a fifteen million toman fine for journalist Dina Ghalibaf.

Prison conditions remain dire and continue to be a place of serious human rights violations, with reports of 25 cases of medical neglect and significant delays in judicial processes affecting 13 cases, where no information about the person has been available after their arrest. Political prisoners like Meisham Dehbanzadeh and Gholamhossein Kolbi faced severe mistreatment, including beatings and medical neglect. Mahnaz Desha, a political prisoner in Evin prison, attempted suicide in protest against the death sentence of another political prisoner and was returned to prison shortly after hospital treatment.

Women’s rights violations persist . This month, two women were executed, and two others were sentenced to death. Women continue to face harassment and arrests for improper hijab wear; in July, one woman was arrested for this reason. Additionally, there was an honor killing, and another woman fell victim to an acid attack in Haftkel.

Workers in Iran endure hazardous conditions, with 24 fatalities and 60 injuries recorded from work-related accidents in July. Additionally, over 3,988 workers reported unpaid wages, exacerbating economic hardships in the face of unsafe working environments. In one incident, an 18-year-old teenager named Habib Ghafran died due to indiscriminate shooting by police forces in Zabul. Five workers, including an emergency rescuer, faced accidents due to unsafe working conditions, resulting in three deaths and two injuries. On July 18th, military forces shot at Kolbers in Nowsud, resulting in one death and five injuries.

This report underscores ongoing human rights abuses in Iran, including executions without transparency, suppression of dissent, dire prison conditions, systematic violations of women’s rights, and unsafe labor practices, warranting urgent international attention and action.

 

Executions

This month in Iran, the execution of 43 individuals took place, comprising 36 men and 2 women. A total of 14 individuals were sentenced to death. Iran persists in executing individuals for offenses falling short of the standards outlined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Notably, there remains a consistent trend of individuals being executed for drug-related crimes, a practice in clear contravention of the right to life as stipulated by the ICCPR. This month, 26 people were executed for drug-related offenses.

Kamran Sheikha, a Sunni prisoner, was executed in Urmia prison after more than fourteen years of imprisonment. He was sentenced to death along with six other Sunni prisoners and was the last to be hanged in this case.

The case began in October 2007 with the killing of teacher Abdul Rahim Tina by unknown assailants. Sheikha and the six others were arrested and sentenced to death by Branch 28 of Tehran Revolutionary Court, a sentence later upheld by Branch 41 of the Supreme Court.

Despite an initial overturning by the Supreme Court, the death sentences were reissued by Judge Abolqasem Salavati of Branch 15 of Tehran Revolutionary Court and ultimately confirmed by the Supreme Court on February 14, 2018.

Kamran Sheikha was transferred from Mahabad prison to Urmia prison the day before his execution. Other prisoners in the same case, Qasim Abasteh, Ayoub Karimi, Dawood Abdulahi, and Farhad Salimi, were executed in Qazalhasar prison in Karaj on various dates. Anwar Khezri and Khosro Besharat were also executed in Urmia prison in May of this year.

This month, Sharifeh Mohammadi was sentenced to death by Branch 1 of the Revolutionary Court of Rasht on charges of “Baghi” (armed rebellion) due to her alleged membership in an opposition group. Her court session, held on June 8th, addressed accusations of propaganda against the regime, actions against national security, and “Baghi” through her involvement with an opposition group. The Ministry of Intelligence apprehended Mohammadi at her Rasht residence on December 5, 2023. She was transferred from Lakan Prison to Sanandaj Prison on December 30, 2023, and later returned to Lakan Prison.

Similarly, this month, Pakhshan Azizi, a political detainee held in Evin Prison, was sentenced to death by Judge Iman Afshari of Branch 26 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court. Azizi faced multiple charges, including “membership in anti-regime groups.” A source close to the labor activist’s family told HRANA, “Sharifeh was a member of the Association of Labor Organizations until 2013, which has no connection to the Komala group she is accused of being a member of, leading to the charge of ‘Baghi’.”

 

 

Freedom of Thought and Expression 

Iran continues to crack down on anyone who protests or criticizes the regime, persistently violating the right to freedom of expression and thought. This month alone, 144 individuals have been arrested related to freedom of expression, 32 trials, and 2 cases of assault and battery by police. Iran also continues to sentence individuals based on their posts on social media platforms, this month Hamidreza Shirzadi, was sentenced to one year in prison on charges of “blasphemy, his posts on Instagram were used against him. 

A spokesman for the judiciary announced the arrest of 113 people, the summoning to the courts of 100 people, for charges related to the presidential elections. Additionally, 4500 instagram pages have been identified for “trying to encourage people to boycott the elections and create despair and despair in the society”. Lastly, also two cases were filed against Telegram channels related to the presidential election. Additionally, the spokesperson of the Judiciary stated that 30 individuals were summoned to the Prosecutor General’s Office for what he called “promoting rumors in cyberspace”.

Shervin Hajipour, an Iranian singer, has been summoned to serve his prison sentence. His sentence of three years and eight months was confirmed by the appeals court. During the 2022 nationwide protests, Hajipour was arrested for his song “Brai” and was later charged with “propaganda against the regime” and “inciting people to disturbances.” Although his travel ban was lifted, he must present himself to prison soon. Additionally, he faces a two-year travel ban and other penalties. Hajipour’s song “For” won the “Song for Social Change” award at the 55th Grammy Awards.

Additionally, a charge was filed against “Jehan Sanat” newspaper”publishing material regarding the results of the presidential election. 

Salahuddin Khalaj Asadi, a journalist, was sentenced to 40 lashes by the Court of Appeal of Central Province. This sentence followed a complaint by Massoud Piraysh, the Director General of the Sports and Youth Department of Central Province, accusing Asadi of insulting a government official. 

While Asadi was acquitted of personal insult, defamation, and publication of falsehoods, the court upheld the lashing sentence for the charge of insulting a government official. Despite international prohibitions against inhumane and degrading punishments, including execution, Iran continues to use such punitive measures.

The Court of Appeals of Tehran Province has upheld a two-year prison sentence and a fifteen million toman fine for journalist and Shahid Beheshti University student Dina Ghalibaf, for “spreading falsehoods.” Both penalties are suspended for five years, requiring her to avoid political and social activists during this period. Ghalibaf, arrested on April 16 and later transferred to Evin Prison, was reportedly abused during detention. She was released on bail on May 1. At 23, Ghalibaf has worked with ISNA and EghtesadOnline and faced disciplinary action for participating in a university protest in 2023.

On 24 July, 10 individuals were arrested in Kamyaran and transferred to an undisclosed location. The arrest took place during the funeral of Esmaeil Karimi, a forest ranger who was fatally injured while extinguishing the fire in Kamyaran.

 

Prison Conditions

In July, there were 25 cases of prisoners lacking medical care and there were 13 cases where no information about the person has been available after their arrest, leaving families in the dark about the prisoners’ fates due to a lack of contact. Meanwhile, 13 political prisoners have been granted medical leave.  Furthermore, 18 prisoners have been transferred to solitary confinement, 6 prisoners have had no access to a lawyer, and 4 have gone on hunger strikes in protest of their conditions.

Meisham Dehbanzadeh, a political prisoner in Qazalhasar prison, Karaj, has suffered irreversible damage to the nerves in his left eye after being beaten by prison guards last year. Following a conflict in the 5th Division of the Greater Tehran Prison in June 2022, six guards beat him on the head and handcuffed him to a bar for a day. He was recently transferred to Farabi Hospital due to vision loss and headaches, where doctors confirmed his condition is untreatable. Dehbanzadeh, sentenced to six years in prison and 74 lashes for property destruction and other charges, faces daily difficulties due to his vision impairment, causing concern among his family. He was previously released under an amnesty decree in June 2023 but remains imprisoned following additional sentences by the Tehran Revolutionary Court.

Gholamhossein Kolbi, a political prisoner in Shiban Ahvaz prison, is serving the 24th year of his life sentence. Despite suffering from hernia and ear infections, he has been deprived of proper medical care and hospitalization. Kolbi, 66, has been limited to basic examinations and pills from the prison infirmary, though he requires specialized treatment. He was arrested on January 19, 2000, with Saeed Masouri for alleged membership in the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran, Kolbi was initially sentenced to death in 2001 for moharebeh, later commuted to life imprisonment. He spent 14 months in solitary confinement and was transferred between various prisons before landing in Shiban Prison.

Mahnaz Desha, a political prisoner in Evin prison, attempted suicide by swallowing pills on the evening of Tuesday, August 2. She was taken to Luqman Hospital and returned to Evin Prison shortly after. Desha’s suicide attempt was in protest against the death sentence of another political prisoner, Azizi. Desha was arrested on November 13, 2023, in Tehran and transferred to Evin Prison on December 3, 2023. In December 2023, she was sentenced to three years and eight months for conspiracy and eight months for propaganda against the regime. Her sentence was later reduced to two years and nine months. Desha has a history of judicial and security issues.

In conclusion, the treatment of prisoners in Iran remains a critical human rights concern, with ongoing reports of medical neglect, violence, lack of legal representation, and punitive actions against political dissent.

 

 

Women 

This month, 2 women were executed, and 2 others were sentenced to death. Women continue to face harassment and arrests for not wearing hijab properly. In July, 1 woman was arrested for improper

 hijab wear. Additionally, there was an honor killing, and another woman in Haftkel fell victim to an acid attack.

A video showing teenage girls without hijabs participating in the mourning processions of the third Shiite Imam was circulated on social networks. Following the video’s release, the police chief of Alborz province announced that these girls have been summoned to the police.

Hamid Hedavand, the police chief, stated that the video caused hurt feelings among mourners and prompted police action. He labeled the girls as violators and confirmed that all identified individuals have been summoned by the Alborz province police.

Sepideh Rashno, a writer, student, and anti-hijab protester, has been summoned to Evin Prison on July 27 to serve her sentence. Despite attempts to delay her sentence, the Supreme Court converted another prison sentence to a fine, but the previous suspended sentence will be enforced.

In July 2022, a video showed Rashnu confronting a religious vigilante on a bus, leading to her arrest and a suspended three-years, seven-months prison sentence in December 2022. In 2023, she faced additional charges, resulting in a reduced sentence, which was converted to a fine. Rashnu, about 30, is a painting student at Alzahra University and was suspended for not complying with mandatory hijab rules.

 

Workers 

Workers in Iran face ongoing challenges and hazardous workplaces. In a tragic turn of events, this month saw 24 fatalities resulting from work-related accidents, with an additional 60 workers left injured. Moreover, 3988  workers reported unpaid wages, while 3418 others were denied their insurance rights. 

On Friday, July 15th, an 18-year-old teenager named Habib Ghafran (Taymuri) from Zabul died due to indiscriminate shooting by police forces. The anti-narcotics forces fired at a car without warning, seriously injuring the driver with a bullet to the head. Ghafran, who worked at his father’s supermarket on Zabul Army Blvd, died after 24 hours in the hospital.

Five workers, including an emergency rescuer, faced accidents due to unsafe working conditions in Kerman, Dezful, Qazvin, and Isfahan, resulting in three deaths and two injuries.

  • In Kerman, a 30-year-old worker died after falling into a well while digging on a cattle farm near Akhtiar Abad. Rescuers retrieved his body after two to three hours.
  • In Dezful, a 38-year-old emergency rescuer, Ebrahim Harisi, drowned in the Dez River. His body was found by fire department divers.
  • In Isfahan, a worker fell into a canal during a water transfer project and was injured when soil fell on his head.
  • In Qazvin, two elevator repairmen experienced an electric shock while fixing a broken elevator, resulting in one death and one injury.

On Monday, July 18th, military forces shot at Kolbers in the border areas of Nowsud, resulting in one death and five injuries. Ayoub Mohammadi, a married father from Kogah village, Salas Babajani county, and resident of Javanrud, was killed. The injured Kolbers were taken to Quds Hospital in Paveh for treatment. The military has not yet handed over Mohammadi’s body to his family. The Kolbar work is a hazardous and difficult job pursued due to lack of opportunities, often leading to fatalities or injuries from natural hazards or shootings by border guards. 

 

 

International News Update:

The campaign to defend labor activist Sharifeh Mohammadi is gaining strong international support. Recently, the French trade union collective, comprising five major unions with hundreds of thousands of workers, and the Confederation of Danish Trade Unions condemned her death sentence and demanded her immediate release. They emphasized that fighting for workers’ rights should never be a crime and criticized the Iranian regime’s repressive actions.

Various other international organizations, including Amnesty International, the Swedish-Iran trade union platform, and unions from Spain, Germany, and Australia, have also supported the campaign. The campaign “Free Them Now” has called for global support to pressure the International Labour Organization (ILO) to expel Iran from the organization and to secure Mohammadi’s release. The collective efforts aim to amplify the voice of Mohammadi and her family worldwide and ensure her immediate freedom.

UN Special Rapporteur, Dr. Javaid Rehman, emphasized the need for an international mechanism to investigate and prosecute those responsible for “atrocity crimes” in Iran, including the extrajudicial killing of thousands of arbitrarily arrested prisoners during the 1980s crackdown on political dissent.

Dr. Rehman, whose mandate ends on July 31 and is now being taken over by Mai Sato, stated that the summary, arbitrary, and extrajudicial executions during 1981-1982 and in 1988 amounted to crimes against humanity, including murder, extermination, and genocide. The victims included women, some reportedly raped before execution, and many children. Crimes against humanity also included imprisonment, torture, and enforced disappearances.

Dr. Rehman highlighted that the Bahá’ís were targeted with genocidal intent, and persecution of religious, ethnic, and linguistic minorities and political opponents continued with impunity since the Islamic Republic’s establishment in 1979. The Special Rapporteur’s final findings call for an investigative and accountability mechanism to conduct impartial investigations, preserve evidence, and aim for criminal prosecutions under international law. Rehman stressed that the ongoing concealment of the fate of political opponents and the whereabouts of their remains amounts to the crime against humanity of enforced disappearance.

Dr. Rehman noted the failure to ensure justice and accountability in Iran and its impact on the families of victims and the current human rights situation. Despite the Iranian government’s denial of these “atrocity crimes,” perpetrators have not been brought to justice. Rehman reiterated that there should be no impunity for gross human rights violations, regardless of when they were committed. He called for an independent international investigative and accountability mechanism for Iran to ensure that the regime and its leaders face consequences for their crimes against humanity and genocide.

 

 

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Monthly Report – June 2024: Human Rights Situation in Iran

HRANA – HRA’s Statistics Department has released its monthly report for June 2024, highlighting ongoing human rights violations across Iran. This month, 8 individuals were executed, all men, with only 1 execution officially reported. Alongside these executions, 10 individuals were sentenced to death, underscoring a persistent use of capital punishment in Iran, often for offenses that do not meet international standards, notably drug-related crimes. This practice starkly contradicts the right to life as articulated in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). 

Freedom of expression remains severely curtailed, with 167 individuals arrested in relation to this issue during June. Among them were journalists Saba Azarpik and Yashar Soltani, who were imprisoned under allegations of publishing content deemed detrimental to societal psychological security. Additionally, political activists such as Matin Hasan faced harsh sentences, with Hasan receiving a 31-month prison term for alleged involvement in protests against the regime. 

Prison conditions continue to deteriorate, with reports of 19 cases of medical neglect and significant delays in judicial processes affecting 94 cases. Political prisoners like Reza Khazaei and Muhammad Girgij faced severe mistreatment, including solitary confinement and suspicious circumstances leading to deaths in custody. 

Women’s rights violations persist under Iran’s “Operation Noor,” with incidents such as the forcible detention of over 100 students for violating mandatory hijab laws at Azad University and violent arrests of women in Tehran and Behbahan for non-compliance with hijab regulations. Atena Farghdani received a harsh six-year prison sentence for her civil activism, including charges of insulting sacred things and propagating against the regime.

Workers in Iran endure hazardous conditions, with 44 fatalities and 183 injuries recorded from work-related accidents in June. Additionally, over 820 workers reported unpaid wages, exacerbating economic hardships in the face of unsafe working environments.

This report underscores ongoing human rights abuses in Iran, including executions without transparency, suppression of dissent, dire prison conditions, systematic violations of women’s rights, and unsafe labor practices, warranting urgent international attention and action.

Executions

This month in Iran, the execution of 8 individuals took place, comprising 8 men and 0 women. Additionally, of the 8 executions only 1 were reported by official sources. A total of 10 individuals were sentenced to death. Iran persists in executing individuals for offenses falling short of the standards outlined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Notably, there remains a consistent trend of individuals being executed for drug-related crimes, a practice in clear contravention of the right to life as stipulated by the ICCPR. This month, 6 people were executed for drug-related offenses.

This month the Supreme Court of Iran, upheld the death sentence for Sunni Cleric Mohammad Khezrnejad. He was arrested during the nationwide 2022 protests. He was found guilty on the charge of “spreading corruption on earth,” “compromising national security by threatening the country’s integrity or independence,” and “engaging in propaganda against the regime. Similar to other cases the conviction was largely based on coerced confessions extracted during interrogations, where Khezrnejad allegedly confessed to “leading protests in Bukan and affiliating with anti-regime factions.” 

Freedom of Thought and Expression 

Iran continues to crack down on anyone who protests or criticizes the regime, persistently violating the right to freedom of expression and thought. This month alone, 167 individuals have been arrested related to freedom of expression, 55 trials, and 2 cases of assault and battery by police Among those affected are journalists Saba Azarpik and Yashar Soltani, who were arrested and taken to prison to serve their sentences. Azarpik was sentenced to two years in prison on five counts of publishing lies,

defamation, and threats, following complaints from the Islamic Council, Mohsen Dehnavi, Zahra Sheikhi, and two others. Additionally, Azarpik also faced a miscarriage due to her treatment and stress while being imprisoned,

Soltani, the director of Scan News channel, was charged with “publishing content aimed at disru pting the psychological security of society.” Iran continues to imprison journalists for content deemed contrary to the regime’s interests. Additionally, journalists Hadi Kesaizadeh, and Vahid Ashtari have been arrested due to their work. Mohammad Parsi currently has an active case against him for writing about the death of Nika Shakrami, Kesaizadeh was arrested for the same issue.

Moreover, politically motivated sentences are still being handed down. Matin Hasan received a thirty-one-month prison sentence for his role in the 2019 protests, with charges including “incitin

g people to engage in warfare with the intent to disrupt national security” and “propaganda against the regime.” Similarly, Mehdi Sabeti was se

ntenced to two years in prison for “insulting the Supreme Leader” and an additional year for “propaganda against the regime.”

In Astra, several citizens were arrested for their reaction to the late president Ebrahim Raisi, according to the governor, a video was posted on social media of the citizens celebrating his death, like burning the president’s banner and images. 

On June 17th, Reza Babranjad, the brother of Mehdi Babranjad—one of the victimsof the 2022 nationwide protests—was arrested. No information has been provided regarding the reasons for his arrest or the charges

 against him. Furthermore, Narges Mohammadi was sentenced to an additional one year in prison for ‘propaganda against the regime’, her lawyer claims this is for words about Dina Qalibaf , her letter about boycotting the parliamentary elections, and the letter to the parliaments of Sweden and Norway. Lastly, Atena Farghdani, a cartoonist and civil activist imprisoned in Evin prison, was sentenced to six years in prison by the twenty-sixth branch of Tehran Revolutionary Court for insulting sacred things and propaganda against the regime.

Prison Conditions

In Iran, there have been 19 cases of prisoners lacking medical care and 94 cases of uncertainty due to excessive prolongation of the judicial process and delays in determining the individuals’ status. Additionally, there are 25 cases where no information about the person has been available after their arrest, leaving families in the dark about the prisoners’ fates due to a lack of contact. Meanwhile, 8 political prisoners have been granted medical leave.  Furthermore, 4 prisoners have been transferred to solitary confinement, 21 prisoners have had no access to a lawyer, and 6 have gone on hunger strikes in protest of their conditions.

 

Prisoners continue to be treated violently. On June 9th, Reza Khazaei, an inmate at Qazalhasar Prison, was beaten by prison offi

 

cers and subsequently transferred to solitary confinement. Khazaei was beaten following the publication of a video from inside the prison, showing prisoners, including Khazaei, protesting the implementation of numerous death sentences, poor conditions, and misconduct by prison officials. 


Additionally, on June 25th,
Muhammad Girgij was arrested by anti-narcotics forces while on his way to his father’s house. Unaware of his arrest, his family feared for his safety and searched for him. Three days later, on June 28th,

 Zahedan’s drug department contacted his father, informing him that his son had died in their detention center. Despite the father’s demands for an explanation and to see his son’s body, no information was provided, and he was told to return the next day to collect the body. This case is part of a troubling pattern of suspicious deaths in police and judicial custody in Iran, with many cases remaining unresolved and uninvestigated.

Prisoners in Ward 4 of Evin Prison are facing many problems, especially overcrowding. Ward four of Evin prison has four halls. Halls 3 and 4, which have a capacity of 120 people, are now crowded with more than 300 people.

In conclusion, the treatment of prisoners in Iran remains a critical human rights concern, with ongoing reports of medical neglect, violence, lack of legal representation, and punitive actions against political dissent.

Women 

A notable incident occurred at Azad University Central Tehran Branch on June 9th, where at least 100 students were forcibly detained for not adhering to mandatory hijab laws. They were released only after signing a commitment letter to comply with hijab rules, with some being allowed to leave only after changing their veils.

On June 27th, police officers in Tehran violently arrested a young woman for not observing the mandatory hijab, as depicted in photos circulating on social media. The woman initially resisted arrest but was eventually forced into a police van. Her identity and whereabouts remain unknown. This incident is part of Iran’s “Noor” plan, initiated on April 25th, to enforce the mandatory hijab, which has led to numerous reports of violence and arrests of women.

Additionally, a video on social networks shows another arrest for non-compliance with the hijab laws in Behbahan National Park. On June 22nd, a woman was arrested by several officers of the Noor Project, who used violence during the arrest. Women’s rights activists reported that she was insulted after being taken to the “Headquarters of the Public Order of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps” and was later released on bond. Her identity and the specific charges against her remain unknown.

Workers 

Workers in Iran face ongoing challenges and hazardous workplaces. In a tragic turn of events, this month saw 44 fatalities resulting from work-related accidents, with an additional 183 workers left injured. Moreover, 820 workers reported unpaid wages, while 2000 others were denied their insurance rights. 

Due to unsafe environmental conditions and poor working environments, four workers have died in accidents in the cities of Urmia, Selmas, and Meybod. Additionally, two workers trapped under rubble following a mine collapse in Shazand city lost their lives. In another incident, two well diggers died from gas exposure in a sewage well in Selmas city. Specifically, in Golan village of Selmas city, West Azarbaijan province, the two well diggers succumbed to gas exposure before rescuers could arrive.

About eighty workers from the municipality of Sisherd have reported 21 months of salary arrears, attributed by the employer to “lack of financial resources.” 

One worker shared their frustrations, stating that this year they only received a small portion of their April salary, while the salaries for February, March, and the Eid bonus of 1402 remain unpaid. Additionally, since 2019, they have accumulated 21 months of unpaid wages. Despite the change of several mayors, none have addressed the outstanding wage demands from previous administrations. The worker also highlighted further issues, including a seven-month delay in insurance premium payments, which has prevented some colleagues from accessing pension services for several years.

Lastly, in June, there were 3 killings of Kulbars and nine injuries. On the 31st of Arkan Balwaseh, and Dana (surname unknown), were killed during a military shooting in the border areas of Horaman.

International News Update:

On the 20th of June the Secretary-General published his report, including information provided by HRA, to the General Assembly detailing the state of human rights in Iran from August 2023 to March 2024. It highlights increased engagement by Iran with human rights bodies, but expresses grave concerns over the high number of executions, including those related to drug offenses and the execution of minors and protest participants. Civic freedoms remain severely restricted, with targeted repression against journalists, artists, lawyers, and human rights defenders. The report criticizes the Chastity and Hijab Bill for imposing strict dress codes on women and underscores ongoing economic hardships exacerbated by mismanagement and sanctions. Additionally, issues such as the lack of education for children with disabilities, child marriages, and discrimination against minorities are addressed. Despite some positive steps, such as referencing international human rights conventions in judicial decisions and efforts toward accountability for protest-related abuses, significant human rights violations and the need for continued cooperation and reform remain major concerns.

In response to the Secretary General’s report, Ali Bahreini, Iran’s Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, expressed Iran’s opposition to selective mandates within the Human Rights Council, arguing that such approaches do not effectively protect or promote human rights. He emphasized the importance of cooperation with concerned countries as the genuine path to promoting human rights. Iran pledged to enhance cooperation with the High Commissioner for Human Rights and announced its participation in upcoming sessions of the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and the Universal Periodic Review cycle. Bahreini highlighted concerns about Iranians’ deprivation of economic, social, and cultural rights due to unilateral coercive measures, lamenting the suffocation of human rights monitoring mechanisms on this issue. Iran’s commitment to minimizing the application of the death penalty to the most serious crimes was underscored, with ongoing efforts noted to further reduce its scope. Lastly, Bahreini asserted that Iran’s upcoming national elections would showcase its dedication to democracy and the empowerment of its citizens.

On the 27th of June, a group of independent experts called on Iran to release Narges Mohammadi and all women human rights defenders imprisoned for their activism. Narges Mohammadi, serving over 13 years with additional sentences for her advocacy, faces unfair charges framed as “national security” violations to silence dissent. The experts highlight her multiple convictions related to her human rights work, including advocating for female prisoners. The Working Group on Arbitrary Detention has deemed her imprisonment arbitrary. The experts criticize Iran’s discriminatory justice system and the impunity for violations against women, urging respect for fundamental rights such as access to legal and medical support, which Mohammadi has been denied. They condemn the repression of women’s rights activists, particularly those opposing compulsory veiling, and stress that such repression violates Iran’s international human rights obligations.

 

 

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Monthly Report – May 2024: Human Rights Situation in Iran

HRANA – HRA’s Statistics Department has released its monthly report for May 2024, revealing a concerning surge in human rights violations throughout Iran. This month witnessed the execution of 64 individuals, comprising 57 men and 3 women and includes 1 juvenile offender.. Shockingly, only 6 of these executions were reported by official sources, indicating a severe lack of transparency. Furthermore, 7 individuals were sentenced to death, reflecting a persistent trend of capital punishment in Iran.

Freedom of expression continues to be suppressed, with 363 cases related to this issue reported this month. Arrests of journalists and individuals critical of the regime persist, with 4 journalists detained and prominent figures like Mehrshad Kalini arrested for protesting against death sentences. Additionally, the recent death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash led to arbitrary arrests and interrogations of citizens posting about the incident on social media.

Prison conditions remain dire, with reports of medical neglect, prolonged judicial processes, and lack of legal representation. Recent incidents, including solitary confinement of political prisoners like Zartasht Ahmadi Ragheb and Hamzeh Darwish’s attempted suicide, highlight the urgent need for improved conditions and fair treatment within Iran’s prison system.

Women’s rights continue to be violated, with increased surveillance and arrests for non-compliance with hijab regulations under “Operation Noor.” Aida Shakarami and Zhina Modarresi Gorji are among those facing charges related to their activism, demonstrating ongoing crackdowns on dissent and stringent enforcement of hijab laws.

Workers face hazardous conditions and economic strain, with numerous fatalities and injuries resulting from work-related accidents. Additionally, trade activists like Mahmoud Beheshti Langroudi face legal persecution for their activism.

 

Executions

This month in Iran, the execution of 64 individuals took place, comprising 57 men and 3 women. Additionally, of the 64 executions only 6 were reported by official sources A total of 7 individuals were sentenced to death. Iran persists in executing individuals for offenses falling short of the standards outlined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Notably, there remains a consistent trend of individuals being executed for drug-related crimes, a practice in clear contravention of the right to life as stipulated by the ICCPR. This month, 38 people were executed for drug-related offenses.

It is deeply concerning that Iran continues to sentence and execute juvenile offenders. Ramin Sa’adat, who was only 16 at the time of his arrest, was executed on May 18, 2024. International human rights law explicitly prohibits the execution of juvenile offenders, yet Iran persists in this practice.

Hatem Ozdemir, a Turkish national, has been sentenced to death for the second time. After his initial death sentence was overturned by the Supreme Court, he was re-sentenced to death. Furthermore, Iran has recently executed two more Sunni religious prisoners, Anwar Khazari and Khosrow Basharat, following a highly controversial trial. The trial, which involved the alleged murder of a man, was marred by significant human rights violations, including the lack of effective legal representation for the defendants.

Additionally, Iran continues to execute political prisoners. Mahmoud Mehrabi was sentenced to death on the charge of “corruption in the world” based on allegations that he published falsehoods on his Instagram page. This situation highlights ongoing concerns about the fairness and impartiality of Iran’s judicial system and its adherence to international human rights standards.

 

 

Freedom of Thought and Expression 

Iran continues to crackdown on anyone who protests or criticizes the regime, and continues to violate the right to freedom of expression and thought. This month there have been 363 cases related  to freedom of expression. This includes Wafa Ahmadpour and Daniyal Moghadam, who were arrested for producing a protest music video. Since the 2022 protests, many artists who have used creative outlets to call attention to the protests have been arrested. On the 18th of May, Mehrshad Kalini, a pediatric specialist living in Lordegan city, was arrested by the security forces while he was holding a banner protesting the death sentences in one of the streets of this city.

Additionally, journalists continue to be arrested, mainly on charges of propaganda against the regime. This month 4 journalists were arrested. Journalist Ali Moslehi was summoned and imprisoned for this exact charge. Recently, Shirin Saidi was sentenced to five years in prison by the Revolutionary Court of Tehran. Saidi’s travels abroad to South Africa and Lebanon for journalism were used against her in the case.

This month, Ebrahim Raisi, Iran’s president, died in a helicopter crash, causing a significant media stir. As a result, several citizens were summoned, arrested, and interrogated for their posts about the incident. In Amlash city, 10 individuals were arrested for publishing material related to the crash, with the police claiming that the content was intended to disturb the public’s mind. Hayman Mam Khosravi, the brother of Hajar Mam Khosravi, one of the victims of the nationwide protests of 2022, was summoned to the Bukan Intelligence Department for publishing information related to the crash. Maryam Daulatabadi, a resident of Sabzevar, who was arrested after publishing material about the helicopter crash, is still in custody despite the passage of three days, and her family is unaware of her condition.

 

Prison Conditions

In Iran, there have been 16 cases of prisoners lacking medical care and 92 cases of uncertainty due to excessive prolongation of the judicial process and delays in determining the individuals’ status. Additionally, there are 45 cases where no information about the person has been available after their arrest, leaving families in the dark about the prisoners’ fates due to a lack of contact. Meanwhile, 8 political prisoners have been granted medical leave, and there have been 2 cases of suicide among the incarcerated. Furthermore, 26 prisoners have been transferred to solitary confinement, 6 have had no access to a lawyer, and 4 have gone on hunger strikes in protest of their conditions. 

Amidst these alarming trends, recent incidents have highlighted the harsh realities faced by detainees. Zartasht Ahmadi Ragheb, a political prisoner in Qazalhasar prison in Karaj, was transferred to solitary confinement after protesting the treatment of another inmate. In Lakan prison in Rasht, Hamzeh Darwish attempted suicide and was returned to prison despite needing further medical attention. Another case in Qazalhasar prison involved Reza Khazaei, who was beaten by prison officers and transferred to solitary confinement after exposing the prison’s dire conditions in a video. Meanwhile, Varishe Moradi and Paharhan Azizi, political detainees in Evin prison, initiated a hunger strike to protest Moradi’s transfer to Ward 209 and the delay in their court hearing. These incidents underscore the urgent need for improved conditions and fair treatment within Iran’s prison system.

 

 

Women 

The implementation of ‘Operation Noor’ has led to a significant increase in arrests and warnings related to improper hijab wear. In May alone, 602 women were arrested for violating hijab laws, and up until May 30,602 warnings were issued for improper hijab use. A notable incident occurred at Azad University Central Tehran Branch on May 26, where at least 100 students were forcibly detained for not adhering to mandatory hijab laws. They were released only after signing a commitment letter to comply with hijab rules, with some being allowed to leave only after changing their veils.

Aida Shakarami, the sister of deceased protester Nika Shakarami, has been formally charged with “inciting immorality and indecency” and “disobedience to officers.” Additionally, Zhina (Jina) Modarresi Gorji was sentenced to a total of 21 years in prison: ten years for “forming illegal groups aimed at overthrowing the regime,” ten years for “collaborating with hostile countries and groups,” and one year for “propaganda against the regime.” These cases highlight the ongoing crackdown on dissent and the stringent enforcement of hijab laws in Iran.

 

Workers 

Workers in Iran face ongoing challenges and hazardous workplaces. In a tragic turn of events, this month saw 37 fatalities resulting from work-related accidents, with an additional 34 workers left injured. Moreover, 8345 workers reported unpaid wages spanning 67 months, while 4100 others were denied their insurance rights. Additionally, 3 businesses faced closure due to hijab violations, adding to the economic strain. 

Furthermore, workers continue to commit suicide due to dire financial constraints and the pressure placed on them by employers and city officials, which makes both their work and personal situations difficult. Additionally, trade activists continue to be summoned to court and sentenced for their activism. Mahmoud Beheshti Langroudi, a teachers union activist was summoned on the charge of ‘propaganda against the Islamic Republic of Iran”. He is being tried based on his instagram posts. 

Lastly, Kulbars (border couriers) continue to be killed and injured due to military activists at the border. Ajvan Kiani, was in a car when military officials, without warning, opened fire on the car. Mohammad Saran, Ghulam Sarani, and  Nabi Sarani, were all killed due to indiscriminate firing of military officials. This killing of border workers continues to be a significant issue in Iran, where border workers are often killed or injured due to military activities. This month 5 Kulbars were killed and 3 were injured.

 

International News Update:

On the 13th of May, Javaid Rehman, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran along with other UN experts are calling on Iran to revoke the death sentence imposed on anti-corruption activist Mahmoud Mehrabi and to stop sentencing people to death for expressing their opinions. Mehrabi was convicted on vague charges of “corruption on earth” related to his online activism on justice and corruption in Iran. The experts argue that critical views, even if expressed online, do not warrant the death penalty under international law. They express alarm over Iran’s use of severe punishments for freedom of expression, including death sentences and long-term prison terms, citing the recent case of Iranian rapper Toomaj Salehi. The experts emphasize that freedom of expression is fundamental to a free and democratic society and call for amendments to Iran’s Constitution and penal code to prohibit executions and commute all death sentences. They highlight the chilling effect Mehrabi’s arrest and sentencing have on freedom of expression in Iran, particularly in the wake of nationwide protests in 2022.

Additionally Australia has sanctioned five IRGC individuals and three entities for human rights violations, this includes Amir Hatami, Esmail Qaani, Mohammad-Reza Ashtiani, Rashid Gholam, Mehdi Gogerdchian

 Lastly, On the 30th of  May several UN Experts published a statement  about the violence and threats against journalists in Iran. The statement discusses the condemnation by UN experts of violence, threats, and intimidation against the Persian language news service Iran International and its journalists, staff, and owner, Volant Media UK Limited. The experts express deep concern over the escalation of such acts, culminating in the violent stabbing of journalist Pouria Zeraati outside his home in London. They highlight the broader pattern of repression against Persian language media services and the chilling effect these attacks may have on journalists both inside and outside Iran. The article also outlines instances of transnational repression targeting journalists reporting on Iran, including physical assaults and the imposition of travel and financial sanctions. The experts call on Iran to refrain from violence, threats, and intimidation against Iran International and other journalists reporting on Iran from abroad, urging investigation and prosecution of those responsible for such acts.

 

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Monthly Report – April 2024: Human Rights Situation in Iran

HRANA – HRA’s Statistics Department has released its monthly report for April 2024, shedding light on a troubling escalation of human rights violations across Iran. The report reveals a disturbing total of 66 executions, a significant increase from previous months, with 56 men and 3 women among the victims. Of particular concern is the fact that 44 individuals were sentenced to death for drug-related offenses, a practice that contravenes international norms.

The case of protest rapper Toomaj Salehi has garnered widespread attention, as he received a death sentence for “spreading corruption on earth.” This decision has sparked outrage both within Iran and internationally, with many condemning the severity of the punishment and advocating for Salehi’s release.

Furthermore, the report highlights ongoing repression of freedom of expression, exemplified by the imprisonment of university students Hasti Amiri and Zia Naboi for their activism. Disruptions during cultural events, such as the Nowruz ceremony, and security confrontations in Kurdish regions underscore the government’s crackdown on dissent.

Women’s rights continue to be a cause for concern, with increased surveillance and arrests for non-compliance with hijab regulations under the Iranian police’s “Operation Noor.” Cases like the arrest of Aida Shakarami, sister of a protester killed in 2022, and the detention of Nafisa Latifian and Negar Abedzadeh further highlight the challenges women face in Iran.

Executions

This month in Iran, the execution of 66 individuals took place, comprising 56 men and 3 women. A total of 16 individuals were sentenced to death. Iran persists in executing individuals for offenses falling short of the standards outlined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Notably, there remains a consistent trend of individuals being executed for drug-related crimes, a practice in clear contravention of the right to life as stipulated by the ICCPR. This month, 44 people faced execution for drug-related offenses.

In a startling development, the Revolutionary Court of Isfahan handed down a death sentence to protest rapper Toomaj Salehi for “spreading corruption on earth.” This decision sparked outcry, prompting over fifty civil and trade union activists in North Khorasan province to issue a statement condemning Salehi’s death sentence. They argued vehemently that composing and performing protest songs should not warrant capital punishment. The sentence has led to more public outcry, protests, and intense reactions on social media. A group of Iranian lawyers, non-Iranian lawyers and artists issued a statement condemning the death sentence issued for Tomaj Salehi, a protesting rapper, to draw global public attention to this “inhuman and unjust” sentence. A group of political prisoners, in an open letter, stated that the sentence was a ‘show of power’ by the government. Lastly, according to Toronto police, more than 8,000 demonstrators demanded the immediate cancellation of Tomaj Salehi’s death sentence and the cessation of enforcement against women regarding the hijab.

Freedom of Thought and Expression 

Iran continues to crackdown on anyone who protests or criticizes the regime, and continues to violate the right to freedom of expression and thought. This month two university students, Hasti Amiri and Zia Naboi, started serving their prison sentences. They were sentenced last year after protesting the serial poisoning of school students, they were both sentenced to a year for “propaganda against the regime”. 

On Friday, April 3rd, the Nowruz ceremony in Kale Jub village, Firozabad district, Kermanshah, encountered interruptions and remained incomplete, under the directive of the governor and in the presence of law enforcement. Simultaneously, media outlets reporting on Kurdish regions conveyed incidents of security confrontations during Nowruz celebrations in western areas of the nation, notably near Mehsa (Gina) Amini’s tomb in Saqez city. The IRGC also detained  Mohsen Ghader-Rash and Omid Ghader-Nejad for participating in the Nowruz celebration gathering.

Lastly, protestors who participated in the Women Life Freedom Protest that started in September 2022, continue to get sentenced for their participation. Ayoub Gheibipour was sentenced to 11 years in prison with the charge of “enmity against God (Moharebeh)” and  “propaganda against the regime.” Additionally, during his detention he was also denied medical care.

Women 

This month, the Iranian police announced a plan called ‘Operation Noor’, this plan includes increased surveillance and arrest for non-compliance with hijab rules. Additionally, the IRGC have also implemented a new surveillance body. The implementation of this plan has led to an increase in arrest and violent behavior towards women. Additionally, Aida Shakarami, the sister of Nika Shakarami who was killed by officials during the September 2022 protests, was recently arrested by Tehran’s Morality Police for non-compliance with hijab regulations. Nafisa Latifian and Negar Abedzadeh, the wife and daughter of  Iranian football veteran Ahmadreza Abedzadeh, were arrested in Tehran for not observing the “mandatory hijab”, they were released shortly after.  Lastly, Authorities in Bushehr Province have arrested seven women for sharing social media content related to modeling and photography.Their Instagram posts were removed, and electronic devices were confiscated.

Women continue to be sexually assaulted by officials after being arrested. Journalist Dina Ghalibaf shared on social media that she had been detained by police at a Tehran metro station for allegedly wearing an improper hijab. She described being taken to a room, where she endured electric shocks and sexual assault. This public account led to her arrest the next day by security forces. The whole ordeal was videoed and pictures were taken and published online.

Workers 

Workers in Iran face ongoing challenges and hazardous workplaces. In a tragic turn of events, this month saw 100 fatalities resulting from work-related accidents, with an additional 49  workers left injured. Moreover, concerning 2000 workers reported unpaid wages spanning 43 months, while 37000 others were denied their insurance rights. Additionally, 11 businesses faced closure due to hijab violations, adding to the economic strain. 

Given the context, HRANA News Agency has recently released three comprehensive reports, each delving into the challenges faced by Iranian workers. The first report presents a Statistical Analysis of Iranian Workers spanning from May 1, 2023, to April 27, 2024. Within this timeframe, a concerning 84,226 workers did not receive their paychecks, alongside witnessing 428 worker protests and 1,448 trade union demonstrations. The other report underscored the grim toll of unsafe working conditions, revealing that over the past year, at least 1,680 workers lost their lives and 8,199 were injured. The last report detailed the rise in casualties among cross-border laborers and fuel carriers, with 15 and 9 fatalities respectively, and a combined 152 injuries, primarily attributed to indiscriminate military shootings. The final report 

International News Update:

This month, significant attention was directed towards the human rights situation in Iran.  On 4 April 2024, the Human Rights Council voted to extend the International Independent Fact-Finding Mission on Iran’s mandate for an additional year through resolution 55/19. Additionally, this resolution also extends the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on Iran. This resolution also calls for Iran to grant access to the country and provide all necessary information to both bodies. 

The US State Department released its 2023 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices for Iran on April 22nd. The report underscores grave human rights violations, such as unlawful killings, enforced disappearances, and instances of torture or other forms of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment. HRA contributed valuable insights to this report, revealing that authorities executed 37 percent more individuals compared to the previous year and exposing the staggering statistic that over 3,337 workers were owed a cumulative total of more than 262 months of backpay.

Lastly, the Spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Jeremy Laurence released a press statement regarding the new body created by the IRGC to enforce hijab regulations.He also expressed concerns regarding the Guardian Council’s near approval of the Supporting the Family by Promoting the Culture of Chastity and Hijab bill, which would impose even more severe punishments for non compliance. Lastly, he also expressed concern regarding the sentence of rapper Toomaj Salehi, urging for the sentences to be overturned. 

 

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Monthly Report – March 2024: Human Rights Situation in Iran

HRANA – HRA’s Statistics Department has released its monthly report for March 2024, uncovering a concerning array of human rights violations across Iran. The document highlights an alarming number of 19 executions, including a rare instance of a woman being put to death, with many cases falling short of international legal standards for the death penalty.

Notably, the report points to significant suppression of freedom of expression, detailing arrests and convictions of journalists and activists. This includes a transgender individual arrested under dubious charges and a teacher’s union advocate fined for purportedly destabilizing public perception.

In addition to freedom of speech violations, the crackdown on women’s rights activists and harsh sentences handed down to 11 women in Gilan Province for allegedly acting against national security are emphasized. The plight of Iranian workers is also underlined, with instances of unpaid wages, unsafe work conditions, and the tragic suicide of a worker following the demolition of his livelihood.

This comprehensive report sheds light on the depth of human rights abuses in Iran, offering a sobering reminder of the ongoing challenges within the country.

Executions

This month Iran executed 19 individuals of whom 18 were men and 1 woman. A total of 11 individuals were sentenced to death. Additionally, Iran continues to execute individuals for crimes that do not meet the threshold set by the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, on March 18th, 2024, a couple was executed for drug-related crimes.

Similarly, on March 25, 2024, Abbas Aghaie was also executed for drug-related crimes, however, no official sources confirmed his death. Iran continues to execute prisoners in secret, often without the family even knowing.

This month only 4 of the 19 prisoners executed were confirmed by official reports It’s concerning that over 75% of executions in Iran occur without government or judicial notification, deemed “secret” executions by human rights organizations.

 

Freedom of Expression and Thought

Iran persists in its suppression of freedom of expression and thought, as evidenced by recent events. This month, authorities arrested a transgender individual under the pretext of allegedly orchestrating traffic disruptions in Gonbad-e Kavus to promote indecency and promiscuity by gathering young motorcyclists. While the specifics of these purported actions remain undisclosed, the police chief suggested the individual’s motive was to impress friends and seek thrills.

Furthermore, in a concerning development, four journalists faced convictions this month. Among them, Ali Moslehi received a severe sentence of six years and two months, while Omid Pahdi, known for publishing politically sensitive material, was handed a two-year jail term for his critical publications.

The relentless crackdown on dissent extends to activists like Mahmoud Safdari, a teacher’s union advocate, who was fined for allegedly spreading falsehoods aimed at destabilizing the public perception and undermining the regime. These incidents highlight a worrying trend of censorship and repression, underscoring the urgent need for greater respect for fundamental freedoms in Iran.

Women

A continuing crackdown on women’s rights activists persists. On February 29, 2024, the trial of 11 women commenced, all of whom were detained during a mass arrest of citizens in Gilan Province on August 16 and 17, 2023. Their trial concluded this month with Judge Mehdi Rasekhi issuing severe sentences. Zohreh Dadras received a nine-year, six-month, and two-day sentence for her alleged involvement in “forming a group to act against national security,” while Forough Saminia, Sara Jahani, Yasamin Hashdari, Shiva Shah Sia, Negin Rezaie, Azadeh Chavoshian, and Matin Yazdani each received six years and 47 days for charges of “assembly and collusion to act against national security.” Additionally, Hooman Taheri and Jelveh Javaheri were sentenced to one year in prison for “propaganda against the regime.”

Furthermore, Iran continues its surveillance of social media activity, exemplified by the sentencing of Zainab Khaniabpour to two years in prison for sharing pictures without hijab online. Another case of repression emerged when Bita Rasouli, a female singer from Lahijan, Iran, was arrested by security forces on March 18th, only to be released on bail the next day. Rasouli, who had traveled from Turkey to participate in a private ceremony, was detained for reasons including dancing, singing, and accompanying a male musician in a women’s club. Allegations of physical and verbal abuse during her 24-hour detention surfaced, and her case is currently under review by the FATA Police and Security Department.

Workers

Workers in Iran continue to face dire conditions and perilous work environments. This month alone, 13 fatalities tragically occurred due to work-related accidents, with an additional 27 workers sustaining injuries. Furthermore, a staggering 1,600 workers reported unpaid wages spanning 63 months, while 270 workers were denied their insurance rights. Moreover, a total of 169 businesses were sealed. Additionally, one distressing case involved the confiscation of a worker’s house and property. Lastly, a tragic incident occurred when 38-year-old Bapir Khalidi committed suicide after his shoe shed was destroyed and confiscated by officials of the municipal highway barrier.

These distressing statistics underscore the profound challenges confronting workers and emphasize the urgent necessity for enhanced labor protections and enforcement mechanisms. In an effort to bring to light these injustices, workers and trade unions often protest, this month there were 89 trade union gatherings and 2 strikes.

International News

This month, significant attention was directed towards the human rights situation in Iran as the Human Rights Council convened multiple sessions. Dr. Javaid Rehman, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in the Islamic Republic of Iran, delivered his conclusive report to the United Nations Human Rights Council. During this session, he shed light on the alarming frequency of death penalty sentences, notably for drug-related offenses and involving juvenile offenders. Moreover, he highlighted violations of the right to a fair trial and the mistreatment of human rights defenders.

In addition, the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran presented its comprehensive findings to the Human Rights Council. Meticulously documenting various incidents and recurring patterns of rights violations, the report offers a distressing glimpse into systemic abuses. From the tragic case of Mahsa Amini to the use of violence against peaceful protesters resulting in unlawful killings, the report illustrates a concerning trend. Furthermore, the documented violations, which include extrajudicial killings, torture, rape, enforced disappearances, and gender persecution, underscore the pressing need for accountability and justice for the victims and survivors.

Monthly Report – February 2024: Human Rights Situation in Iran

HRANA – In February 2024, Hrana’s monthly report unveils a grim tableau of human rights abuses in Iran, spotlighting 33 executions, numerous unfair convictions and summonses, extensive prisoners’ rights violations, suppression of free speech, unpaid worker protests, and more. The report, a comprehensive account provided by the Institute of Statistics, Publishing and Works of Human Rights Activists in Iran, highlights the country’s alarming rate of per capita executions, including “secret” executions and unfair trials, such as those of Kurdish political prisoners and others accused of espionage without due process. The suppression extends to freedom of thought and expression, where the aftermath of 2022’s protests sees ongoing arrests and coerced confessions under unjust trials. Additionally, the plight of Iranian women and workers is emphasized, detailing punishments for hijab non-compliance, political activism, and unsafe work conditions leading to numerous accidents and protests over unpaid wages. International actions include U.S. sanctions targeting Iranian officials and entities for cyber activities and financial support to the IRGC. Hrana publishes this detailed report with the aim of increasing global awareness of these pressing human rights issues. We invite readers to delve into the full text for a deeper understanding of the situation and to join in advocating for change.

 

February 2024:

During February 2024, a series of reports brought to light numerous human rights abuses, encompassing 33 executions, numerous convictions, summonses, extensive violations of prisoners’ rights, continued suppression of freedom of speech, worker protests—especially concerning unpaid wages—and various other incidents occurring across different provinces. The Data provided by Institute of Statistics, Publishing and Works of Human Rights Activists in Iran.

Executions 

During February, a total of 8 executions were carried out, and a total of 20 individuals were sentenced to death.  Iran currently leads globally in per capita executions of its citizens. None of these executions were reported by official sources 

This month, three Kurdish political prisoners were executed, Mohsen Mazloum, Pejman Fatehi, Wafa Azarbar and Hajir Faramarez stood accused of spying for the Israeli government, similarly to other cases, their  forced confessions were broadcast on domestic television channels and their trial process was unfair. 

A Sunni prisoner, Farhad Salimi,  was executed after spending more than 13 years in jail. A source close to Salimi’s family told Harana: “Our communication with them was cut off a few days ago, there was no contact from the prison with Salimi’s family regarding the execution of the sentence.”

It’s concerning that over 75% of executions in Iran occur without government or judicial notification, deemed “secret” executions by human rights organizations.

 

Freedom of Thought and Expression 

The protests of 2022 led to a wave of arrests, ensnaring even those who were peacefully exercising their rights. Many find themselves entangled in a judicial system rife with injustices: inadequate legal representation, coerced admissions, and more. Among these cases looms the Ekbatan Case, where eight defendants stand accused of the murder of Basij member Arman Alivardi, a charge vehemently denied by all. Their apprehension occurred amidst the Ekbatan protest. Presiding over this contentious affair is Judge Abolqasem Salavati, notorious for his severe judgments and involvement in biased trials, notably those resulting in the execution of protesters. While the first hearing convened on Tuesday, February 20th, no verdicts have yet been rendered. Nevertheless, the proceedings have already become mired in controversy, with allegations of forced confessions and apprehensions about the integrity of due process.

Furthermore, the aftermath of these protests has revealed a troubling trend: the appeals court frequently affirms the initial sentences without addressing the injustices that marred the original trials. A stark illustration of this is the case of Amir Sheibani Zaveh, whose conviction for “propaganda against the regime” was upheld. His punishment entails a one-year imprisonment, a two-year ban on travel, and restrictions on internet and social media use for two years. According to a source close to the family, this charge stemmed from Zaveh’s communication with the families of protesters who suffered injuries or fatalities at the hands of regime forces. Similarly, three political prisoners also recently had their sentences upheld, and protest Rapper Toomaj Salehi’s One-Year Sentence also being upheld.

Furthermore, Iran continues to monitor its citizens’ online behavior, and uses it in their trials. The Intelligence Organization of the Tehran Police Command announced the arrest of 72 citizens for what it called “producing and publishing immoral advertising content on the Instagram platform”.

 

Women 

In Iran, women continue to get punished for non-compliance with hijab laws and also for their political activism. This month several women witnessed a series of legal actions and incidents reflecting societal tensions and legal enforcement surrounding the issue of hijab and gender-based violence.

Leila Naqdi Pari, a member of the Board of Directors of the Iranian Cinema Designers Association, faced legal repercussions from Tehran Criminal Court No. 2 for her alleged ‘non-compliance with Hijab rules’ when she was observed in public without one. The court levied fines, revoked her passport, and imposed an 18-month travel restriction. Moreover, during the proceedings, a photo circulating online depicting her without a hijab at a funeral was presented as evidence against her.

Additionally, Shakila Monfared, a political prisoner, has been charged with “propaganda against the regime.” In Branch 26 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court, presided over by Judge Iman Afshari, Monfared was sentenced to 15 months of imprisonment. Furthermore, she is subject to a two-year travel ban, a prohibition from residing in Tehran and surrounding provinces, a ban from joining political/civil groups, and restrictions on using a smartphone.

Forough Taghipour and Marzieh Farsi, political prisoners, have each been sentenced to 15 years in absentia by the Revolutionary Court of Tehran. The court, led by Judge Iman Afshari, accused them of “suspicious membership in anti-regime groups,” without specifying the supporting acts. Both women opted not to participate in the trial, contesting the court’s legitimacy.

Lastly, the highly controversial “Hijab and Chastity Bill,” was resubmitted to the Guardian Council by the Iranian Parliament. The Parliament’s scrutiny of the bill caused a significant delay, disputes, inconsistencies and errors in the bill  all highlight the contentious nature of this bill.  The bill advocates for severe penalties for violating mandatory hijab regulations , classifying non-compliance as “nudity.” Despite intensified enforcement efforts a growing number of Iranian women are appearing in public without head coverings.

 

Workers 

In the past month, there have been 112 worker accidents across Iran due to poor environmental safety and working conditions, highlighting the country’s low ranking of 102 in global work safety compliance. February alone saw 82 injuries and 30 fatalities resulting from safety negligence. Incidents include deaths in various cities such as Islamshahr, Neishabur, Mirjaveh, Qom, Tehran, Borujen, Isfahan, Kerman, Babol, Semnan, and Nazarabad. Additionally, a worker named Abdul Rahman Ahmadi committed suicide in Sanandaj due to financial struggles, particularly the inability to afford his needed eye treatment.

Further, there were at least 197 protest rallies held, these protests often occur due to unpaid wages, overtime payment and  unsafe working conditions. For example, there are teachers who have not received wages since October 2023. The dire financial situation has caused one worker, Abdul Rahman Ahmadi, to commit suicide. He was not able to pay for his eye treatment which amounted to 70 million Tomans($1,665). 

 

International News: 

On February 2, 2024, the USA sanctioned Hamid Reza Lashgarian, head of the IRGC-CEC and a commander in the IRGC-Qods Force, along with senior officials of the IRGC-CEC: Mahdi Lashgarian, Hamid Homayunfal, Milad Mansuri, Mohammad Bagher Shirinkar, and Reza Mohammad Amin Saberian. These designations were made pursuant to Executive Order 13224 for their involvement in IRGC cyber and intelligence operations, particularly malicious cyber activities against critical infrastructure in the United States and other countries

On February 14, 2024, the USA sanctioned the Central Bank of Iran primarily for their role in providing financial support to the IRGC. Additionally, Pouria Mirdamadi and Seyed Abotaleb Najafi were both individually sanctioned for their role in facilitating the illegal export of goods and technology from over two dozen U.S. companies to end-users in Iran, including the Central Bank of Iran (CBI). 

Between February 2nd and 5th, the Deputy UN Commissioner for Human Rights undertook a visit to Iran amidst considerable controversy. HRA expressed concerns regarding the timing of the proposed visit, citing its proximity to the upcoming session of the Human Rights Council (HRC). There is a significant risk that Iranian authorities may exploit this visit to undermine support for the renewal of crucial accountability mechanisms. They could potentially use this engagement to discredit the factual and evidence-based reports scheduled to be delivered in the coming month.

 

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Iran: An Overview of Human Rights Abuses September – October 2018

Human Rights Activist News Agency (HRANA) – The following is an overview of human rights violations in Iran between September 23rd and October 22, 2018, per information compiled and verified by the Statistics, Publications, and Achievements Division of Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRAI).

Domestic restrictions in Iran on independent human rights reporting make it difficult to capture the full extent of these issues on the ground. The following overview draws on the work of HRANA reporters, as well as a network of independent and verifiable sources, including other human rights associations operating outside Iran’s borders.

Summary

Human rights violations continued all across the country over the past month, and included, but were not limited to: executions, child abuse, mass arrests, violation of prisoners’ rights, violation of freedom of expression, labor abuses, and unchecked environmental pollution.

Death Penalty

Capital punishment remains the most egregious violation of human rights in Iran. On October 10th — the World Day against the Death Penalty — the Center of Statistics at HRAI published its annual report to sensitize the public about the situation of the death penalty in Iran. The report provides statistics about executions carried out in this country between October 10, 2017, and October 9, 2018.

More than 25 citizens, including a juvenile offender, were executed in the last month (between September 23rd and October 22, 2018). More than 20 individuals, including a juvenile offender, were sentenced to death. Four people were executed in public.

HRANA was able to identify or gather details about death row prisoners, including a former member of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Arsalan Khodkam, the ex-spouse of Leila Tajik, Hedayat Abdollahpour and three individuals convicted of financial crimes. New details on the executions of Zanyar Moradi, Loghman Moradi, and Ramin Hossein Panahi were also reported during this period.

Freedom of Thought and Expression

Freedoms of thought and expression were also widely restricted over the past 30 days.

Arrests: Arrestees in this category included a Shiraz city council member, Ahmad Alinejad and his wife, at least 20 residents of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province, writer and Mashad resident Abbas Vahedian, Zahra Majd in Isfahan, and six individuals involved in the Freedom Movement of Iran, arrested in Nain (near Isfahan).

Convictions: Leila Mir-Ghaffari was sentenced to 2 years in prison, Ejlal Ghavami to 8 months, Hassan Abbasi to 35 months (five 7-months prison terms), an Arak resident to 1 year and 30 lashings, Hamidreza Amini to 11 years. Women who protested this past August were sentenced from 6 months to 1 year in prison, Mohammad Mahdavifar was sentenced to 4 years and 6 months, a dual-nationality defendant faces 8 years and 6 months in prison, Soheil Arabi faces 3 years in prison, 3 years in exile, and a fine; the prison sentence of Abdolreza Ghanbari was increased to 15 years, Alireza Moeinian was sentenced to 8 months in prison; a new 6-month sentence extended the prison term of Saeed Shirzad through 2020; six Arak residents arrested amid the January protests were collectively sentenced to a total of 6 years in prison and 444 lashings, and a group of political activists in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province were sentenced to exile and prison terms ranging from 8 to 18 years.

Eleven civil activists, including Mohammad Najafi, Ali Bagheri, and Abbas Safari were sentenced to 3 years in prison and 74 lashings. Behzad Ali Bakhshi, Mohammad Yaghoubi, Yousef Shirilard, Neda Yousefi, Davoud Rahimi, Massoud Ajlou and Mohammad Torabi were sentenced to 1 year in prison and 74 lashings, suspended over five years. Kian Sadeghi faces 3 years in prison and 74 lashings, suspended over five years. Morteza Nazari was sentenced to a total of 13 years in prison, 2 years of exile, and a fine; Zahra Zare Seraji, on the same convictions, to 8 years in prison and a fine. Their co-defendants Ali Kabirmehr and Ali Bazazadeh were both sentenced to 13 years in prison and exile.

Summons: Hamid Farrokhnezhad, Parastoo Salehi, a number of reformist political activists, Tehran city council member Kazem Imanzadeh, Hossein Ahmadi Niaz, and Mohammad Najafi were all summoned by courts and the Ministry of Intelligence.

Censorship: The weekly magazines “Nabze Bazaar” and “Paytakht Kohan,” as well as the website “EntekhabKhabar,” were convicted in press court. Courts also issued indictments for the Chief Executive Officers of “Shargh” and “Shahrvand” newspapers for their reporting on sexual tourism. The National Front of Iran was prevented from holding its Central Council meeting in Tehran, a journalist was beaten by Qazvin municipal agents, and a Kurdish student was barred from education, presumably for his political affiliations.

Prisoners’ Rights
Prisoners are rarely protected from cruel and unusual punishments, and their rights to proper nutrition, hygiene, and medical treatment are systematically violated. A few of these victims are detailed below by category of violation.

Raids and beatings: Prison agents punched Arash Sadeghi on his cancer surgery site; Urmia prison authorities attacked political prisoners and injured them severely, inciting them to hunger strike by the dozens; another Urmia prisoner was assaulted; a prisoner was beaten and injured by Rajai Shahr Prison personnel; Bandar Abbas Prison authorities broke an inmate’s fingers; an Urmia prisoner suffered a TBI after a beating by authorities; and prisoners were forcefully undressed and beaten in Zahedan Prison.

Withholding of medical treatment: A prisoner died after being denied medical care in Zahedan Prison. Farhad Meysami, Arash Sadeghi, and a prisoner in Sanandaj were also denied medical treatment.

Going without: Dozens of Gachsaran prisoners launched protests and hunger strikes in opposition to prison conditions. Six Gonabadi Dervish prisoners continued in an ongoing hunger strike. Reza Sigarchi, also in an act of protest, refused food and medicine in Great Tehran Penitentiary, while 8 Gonabadi Dervishes at the same penitentiary and 8 Baha’i prisoners of Karaj disappeared off of the administrative radar for 30 days. Houshmand Alipour was denied access to an attorney. Three prisoners in the Women’s Ward of Evin Prison were blocked from receiving visits, and the fate of sequestered labor activist and Sanandaj resident Zanyar Dabbaghian was still unknown.

Three prisoners attempted suicide in Zahedan, Urmia, and Saravan prisons. Local sources consistently impute prisoner suicides and suicide attempts to the violence and oppression of prison life.

Religious and Ethnic Minorities

Religious and ethnic minorities remained under threat and consistent judicial pressures this past month.

Baha’is: Eight Baha’i citizens were arrested in Baharestan (near Isfahan), four were arrested in Karaj, one of whom had his business forcibly shut down, and three were arrested in Shiraz.
[Some of these arrests reflect coordinated or group arrests, and linked articles will reflect that information overlap].
A Baha’i resident of Yazd who had been blocked from pursuing education was fired from work for their faith, and the parents of a Baha’i prisoner were temporarily detained following a search of the prisoner’s home.

Sunnis: Five Sunni scholars were sequestered for hours in the Zahedan-Khash road patrol office. Three Baluchi citizens, who are scholars of the Ghalamouei seminary, were arrested in Sirik County (southern Iran). Sunni scholars expressed outcry over the public statements of a soccer player they alleged to be disparaging of Sunni sanctities.

Six members of the Yamani Religious Group in Izeh County were also arrested, presumably for their beliefs.

Ethnic minorities: Arab citizens were arrested, and are still being arrested en masse in wake of the Ahvaz Parade Attack. HRANA is still in the process of confirming the identifies of the arrestees, which according to local reports number into the hundreds. Other arrests suspected to be ethnically discriminatory include Nasim Sadeghi, Mohammad Abdolmohammad-Zadeh, Mojtaba Parvin, Ebrahim Divazi, as well as residents of Ilam, Ahvaz, Marivan, Urmia, Sanandaj, Kermanshah, Saqqez, Pevah, Oshnavieh, and Sardasht.

News emerged on the convictions of Abbas Lasani, Kiumars Eslami, Eghbal Ahmadpour, Keyvan Olyali, Hossein Ali Mohammadi Alvar, as well as defendants in Sanandaj, Urmia, Kamyaran, and two detainees of the Afrin battles in Syria. Turkic activist Javad Ahmadi Yekanli was summoned by county security police in the city of Khoy.

Children’s Rights

Children are among the most vulnerable to human rights abuses in Iran. Over the past month, four wrongful child deaths were reported in the cities of Tehran, Falavarjan (Isfahan Province), Qaem Shahr (Mazandaran province) and (Isfahan Province).

The national director of Iran’s social emergency hotline said that 30% of reports called into the center are flagging some form of “domestic violence,” 30% of which turn out to be child abuse cases. Of this 30%, 50% were related to educational negligence, 30% to physical abuse, 15% to psychological abuse, and 4% to sexual abuse of children.

Maryam Sedighi, deputy director of the social welfare department of Alborz Province, said that 12% of “123” social emergency calls made in Alborz — i.e. an average of 40 calls per month — are child abuse reports.

Reports indicate the rape of a young girl by her father in Tehran; a boxing coach accused of raping his teenage student; a father pouring boiling water over his 7-year-old daughter in Genaveh, Bushehr Province; and a teacher using corporal punishment on a pupil in Kazeroon, Fars Province.

Three juvenile suicides were also reported: one student in Rigan County, Kerman Province, and two teenage girls, aged 14 and 16, in the cities of Abadan and Sanandaj.

The Iranian education system allocates fewer and fewer resources to its pupils, and educational facilities across the country — particularly in rural or underprivileged areas — can be found in varying states of wear and disrepair. One pupil in Razan, Hamadan province was injured in the chest, neck, and shoulders when he was caught in falling debris of a school wall that suddenly collapsed. The Razan director of education said that he is currently stable, but will require surgery.

Elementary-school student Donya Veisi of Garmash village, Kurdistan Province, fell victim to her own school’s disrepair when one of the walls surrounding her school yard collapsed, killing her. Later — amid allegations that Donya had in fact been raped and killed — the Kurdistan Prosecutor verbally engaged to investigate the matter.

Women

The question of women’s rights at sporting events gained heightened public attention this past month when, under pressure from FIFA to permit their entry into stadiums, a select number of Iranian women (most of them family members of players and federation employees) were finally allowed to witness a kickoff in person (Iran vs. Bolivia). Authorities’ exclusive selection criteria were highly criticized.

Meanwhile, Shiraz-based activist Maryam Azad was arrested by security forces at a Tehran Airport as she was leaving the country for Turkey.

The managing director of the office of forensic medicine in Kohkiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province indicated that, of the 429 domestic violence crimes recorded in his office over the past 6 months, 404 were incidents of violence by husbands against their wives.

Additional cases of violence against women included a man’s murder of his ex-wife when he failed to meet “mehrieh” obligations [a type of alimony settlement], and the circumstances surrounding one woman’s decision to set herself on fire in Mashad.

Two women, long hounded by the judiciary for participating in a rally on International Women’s Day, were recently acquitted of their charges.

Laborers and Guilds

This past month was rythmed by strikes, sit-ins, and rallies organized by guilds and employees across sectors who demanded more secure working conditions.

Commercial Transport: This past month, truck drivers in Iran went on a nationwide strike for the third time [in 12 months]. Over the course of their 20-day strike, at least 261 striking drivers in 19 different provinces were arrested and threatened with heavy sentences, including the death penalty. Strikers’ demands did make significant headway: after years of guild activism, the High Council of Transportation Coordination approved a new freight transport measurement rate known as the tonne-kilometre (tkm) method, which was among the most pressing demands of truck drivers. Despite this partial victory, the fates of the 261 detained protesters are still unknown.

Education: Six Educator-Activists who participated in demonstrations May 10th were sentenced to 9 months in prison and 74 lashings. Also reported was the conviction of schoolteacher and University of Tehran student Ruhollah Mardani, who was arrested earlier this year in connection to nationwide protests. Five teachers were summoned by the Bureau of Public Places in Saqqez.

Following a call to strike by the Coordinating Council of Teachers Syndicates in Iran (CCTSI), Iranian teachers staged sit-ins [on October 14th and 15th] to demand more liveable salaries and justice for their persecuted colleagues. Strike activity was recorded across the provinces of Kerman, Lorestan, Khuzestan, Kermanshah, Isfahan, Kurdistan, Alborz, Hamadan, Fars, Zanjan, Qom, Mazandaran, Tehran, North Khorasan, Ilam, East and West Azerbaijan, Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad, Bushehr, Gilan and Hormozgan.

Merchants: Merchants went on strike against the many interconnected symptoms of Iran’s current recession, including unstable exchange rates, inflation, rising prices, and unemployment. Merchant strikes went on for two consecutive days in the cities of Karaj, Shahreza, Shahriar, Shiraz, Kermanshah, Tabriz and Sarab.

Two street vendors were reportedly beaten by municipal agents in Qazvin and Gorgan.

Health and Environment:

Five environmental activists arrested 8 months ago have been indicted with charges of “corruption on earth,” which can carry the death penalty.

Intelligence agents halted a group of environmental journalists, including Javad Heydarian, before they could board a flight to Germany for work. Their passports were confiscated.

Public concern over pollution and waste issues is ballooning, and [many citizens are critical of the government’s inaction in face of myriad threats to the public health].

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Iranian Ministry of the Interior, Iranians surpass the worldwide average of daily waste production (300 grams) by a whopping 400 grams every day.

The head of the Environmental Protection Agency of Miandoab (West Azerbaijan Province) announced that contamination of the Zarrinehroud River from the city’s sugar factory, coupled with poor ecological management of the river and its dam system, has caused thousands of fish to die in the river.

High levels of air pollution were reported this month in the cities of Kerman, Mahshahr, Ramshir, Rigan, and the provinces of Sistan and Baluchestan and Kerman.

Cultural Rights and Censorship

A number of photographers from Shiraz faced persecution for their instagram activity this month [which was cited as “improper”].

Two cultural directors from Sistan and Baluchestan province were summoned to the Intelligence office for attempting to host a peaceful community celebration.

Pending content modifications and the resolution of charges against the Home Video Entertainment Network, the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance banned distribution of the network’s TV series “13 Shomali” (Northern 13), which previously aired on Saturdays.

Military and Law-Enforcement Power Abuses

Several citizens were killed as a result of power abuses and negligence by security forces this past month.

Police car chases, inappropriate shootings by border authorities, and authorities’ failure to warn civilians of road barriers led to 2 civilian injuries and 5 civilian deaths in Iranshahr (Sistan and Baluchestan Province), Jask (Hormozgan Province) and Azadshahr (Golestan Province) and Razavi Khorasan.

Security forces reportedly assaulted fuel vendors in Saravan (Sistan and Baluchestan Province).

More than a dozen “Kulbars” [laborers who make their living carrying goods across border areas] were wounded and killed across the country, namely in Sardasht (West Azerbaijan Province), Piranshahr (West Azarbaijan Province), Urmia (West Azerbaijan Province) Nowsud (Kermanshah Province), Marivan and Baneh (Kurdistan Province) and Ilam (Ilam province).

A prisoner in Urmia was sentenced to hand amputation, and a robbery convict was dealt 74 lashes in public in the Zeberkhan Rural District (Nishapur County, Razavi Khorasan Province).

__________________________________________________________________________

The above-cited reports are only a few examples of dismally more widespread trends. Their mention in this overview by no means implies their significance over those incidents which went unreported, due to tight restrictions on investigative journalists on the ground.

Among available reports of human rights abuses, however, some are more oft-cited due to their sensitive nature or predominating presence in public opinion. It bears mention that all human rights abuses are worthy of the news coverage and social media activism that has come to the aid of so relatively few. Bearing in mind their roles as public opinion influencers, social media activists and human rights reporters must be wary not to underlie existing human rights abuses with unintentional discrimination in their reporting.