Between January 5th and 14th, 2026, Iranian authorities executed at least 52 individuals across 42 prisons, according to a report from the U.S.-based human rights organization Human Rights Activists (HRANA). These executions occurred concurrently with ongoing national protests and under a widespread internet blackout, and involved individuals previously convicted of crimes including murder and drug-related offenses.
Rising Executions Amidst Unrest
HRANA’s report highlights a disturbing trend of escalating state-sponsored executions during a period of intense social and political upheaval. The organization noted that the lack of public access to information and the near impossibility of independent judicial oversight created a climate where due process was severely compromised. Between January 5th and 12th, at least 37 executions were verified across various prisons, primarily for the charge of murder.
The wave of executions continued in the following days. On January 10th, two prisoners were executed in Karaj prison for drug-related crimes, and three were executed in Aligudarz for murder. Further executions were reported on January 11th in Bandar Abbas and on January 12th in Isfahan. By January 13th, HRANA had documented at least ten additional executions for murder and drug offenses, with the identities of seven of those executed still pending verification.
Broader Context of Protest and Repression
These executions are occurring against the backdrop of ongoing protests in Iran, which, as of January 20th, have resulted in at least 3,090 confirmed deaths and an additional 3,882 cases under review. At least 2,055 people have sustained serious injuries, and over 22,123 arrests have been made. The country remains under a national internet blockade, and international responses have intensified, encompassing diplomatic actions and security concerns.
Internationally, concerns over human rights have prompted diplomatic responses, including the withdrawal of diplomats and increased political pressure on Tehran. The Iranian government, however, has maintained a narrative focused on security and attributed the protests to foreign interference. U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Iran refrained from executing over 800 people due to political pressure, alongside renewed calls to end violence against protestors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges led to these executions?
According to HRANA, the individuals executed were primarily convicted of murder and crimes related to drugs.
Was there independent oversight of the trials?
HRANA reported that independent supervision of the judicial proceedings was practically impossible.
How many deaths related to the protests have been confirmed?
As of January 20th, HRANA confirmed 3,090 deaths related to the protests, with an additional 3,882 cases still under review.
Given the current climate of repression and limited access to information, it remains to be seen whether the Iranian government will continue to employ such severe measures. Further escalation of the conflict, or a potential easing of restrictions, could significantly alter the trajectory of the situation. Will international pressure influence the Iranian government’s actions, or will the current course of repression continue?
