UN Rights Chief Warns Dozens More Iranians Face Execution Over January Protests

The U.N. human rights chief, Volker Turk, on Friday urged Iran to impose an immediate moratorium on the death penalty, warning that dozens of people could face execution following the country’s crackdown on mass protests in January. Speaking at the U.N. Human Rights Council, Turk said reports indicated that at least eight individuals, including two minors, had already been sentenced to death in connection with the demonstrations, and another 30 appeared at risk of the same punishment.

A revolutionary court in Tehran recently handed a death sentence to an Iranian man accused of “enmity against God,” marking the first execution linked to the January protests, according to a source close to the man’s family. Human rights organizations have reported that thousands were killed during the government’s suppression of the protests, which have been described as the most severe domestic unrest in Iran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Turk expressed concern over the broader regional implications of the crackdown. “I am extremely alarmed about the potential for regional military escalation and its impact on civilians, and I hope the voice of reason prevails,” he said, highlighting that the issue could heighten tensions between Iran and other countries, particularly the United States.

Also Read: Tamil Nadu BJP Chief Apologises After Remark on Trisha Krishnan

U.S. President Donald Trump had previously warned Tehran that military action could follow if executions were carried out, reflecting rising international pressure on the Iranian authorities. Turk’s call for a moratorium echoed these concerns, emphasizing the humanitarian and legal obligations of Iran under international law.

Meanwhile, talks in Geneva on Thursday between the United States and Iran, mediated by Oman, reportedly made progress on Tehran’s nuclear programme, though no breakthrough was reached to avert potential U.S. military action amid a significant buildup of forces in the region.

The U.N. rights chief’s statements underscore growing international alarm over both the human rights situation in Iran and the geopolitical risks linked to the country’s domestic unrest, urging restraint and adherence to due process to prevent further escalation and protect civilians.

Also Read: All Seven Killed In Chatra Air Ambulance Crash; Marandi Seeks Comprehensive Investigation