Iran: Amnesty warns of escalating executions after two public hangings

Herz — World Desk · 28 July 2026 at 20:06 · 30s summary · 2 min read

What we know

Amnesty International has warned of an “escalation in the use of the death penalty” in Iran following the execution of two men. The organisation says the executions are being used to suppress dissent.

At least 60 other people currently face the death penalty, according to Amnesty International. Many are being prosecuted over their involvement in the winter’s anti-government protests.

Iran’s Mehr news agency reported that the two men were publicly hanged in a square in Malekshahr, in the central province of Isfahan.

The accusations against the two men

The two men had been convicted over their involvement in the protests. Iran’s judiciary said they attacked police officers and “set them on fire” in January.

Timeline of the protests

1. December
   Protests begin amid poor economic and political conditions.
2. After the protests begin
   The movement quickly develops into large demonstrations against the country’s leaders.
3. January 8 and 9
   The protest movement reaches its peak.
4. After January 8 and 9
   State forces intervene violently against protesters.
5. January
   The acts attributed to the two executed men allegedly take place during this month.

The human toll

Iranian data indicate that thousands of people died during the protests. The Iranian government denies responsibility for the deaths.