Surge in State Executions by Iran Raises Concerns Amid Ongoing Nuclear Negotiations with the U.S.

Surge in State Executions by Iran Raises Concerns Amid Ongoing Nuclear Negotiations with the U.S.

Since taking office on July 8, 2024, President Masoud Pezeshkian has overseen a staggering 1,051 state executions in Iran. This alarming figure represents a significant surge of more than 20% from the previous year, during which 853 executions occurred. Analysts suggest that the U.S. must carefully assess this situation as it resumes critical nuclear discussions with Tehran.

The Connections Between Executions and Diplomatic Efforts

The National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) reported the recent execution statistics, shedding light on the regime’s approach amidst escalating international tension. As the Biden administration seeks to stabilize relations and potentially reinstate a nuclear deal with Iran, these human rights violations cast a shadow over diplomatic efforts.

Pezeshkian, who campaigned with moderates and reformists dissatisfied with the regime’s harsh actions following the 2022 protests against the death of Mahsa Amini, has signaled a willingness to engage the U.S. in discussions. During a televised debate prior to the election, he noted the regime’s waning support due to its behavior, rising costs of living, and its oppressive tactics.

Execution Statistics in Context

The notable increase in executions reflects the Iranian government’s crackdown on dissent, particularly against individuals involved in protests sparked by Amini’s death. The regime has particularly targeted those accused of drug-related offenses, dissenters, and participants in the protests, including a disturbing trend towards executing minors and women.

The NCRI described this situation as a manifestation of desperation by Iran’s leadership, particularly by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The organization claimed that the regime aims to quell the threat of widespread rebellion through a brutal campaign of executions and violence.

Child Executions: A Particularly Disturbing Trend

Human rights watchdogs, including Amnesty International, have condemned Iran’s continued execution of minors. The organization reported that girls as young as nine and boys starting at fifteen can receive death sentences. Between 2005 and 2015, at least 73 young offenders faced execution, highlighting a disturbing pattern that persists today.

The United Nations has indicated that approximately 160 individuals are currently on death row for offenses committed while they were underage. However, experts warn that official numbers may underrepresent the true scope of this crisis.

The Clash Between Human Rights and Nuclear Diplomacy

The timing of these executions raises serious concerns as the U.S. moves forward in negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program. Observers urge the international community to take Iran’s troubling human rights record into account when deciding on engagement strategies with the regime.

Maryam Rajavi, the president-elect of the NCRI, has called for global leaders to impose conditions on their interactions with Iran. She asserts that any diplomatic dealings should hinge on a ceasing of torture and executions. Rajavi has also proposed that Iran’s human rights violations be referred to the U.N. Security Council to hold Khamenei and other regime officials accountable for crimes against humanity.

Mobilizing Against State Violence

As calls for justice grow louder, Rajavi has encouraged the Iranian populace, particularly the youth, to unite against state violence by participating in the growing