Dozens of protesters sentenced to death in Iran, says rights group

Dozens of people allegedly involved in the recent anti-government protests in Iran have been sentenced to death in Iran, according to a rights group.

The Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHRNGO) organisation, said in a new report that at least 26 detainees from the demonstrations that broke out in December are "imminently" facing execution.

Hundreds more, including children, face charges that could lead to the death penalty.

“The danger of mass executions of detained protesters is real and imminent. These death sentences are based on confessions extracted under torture and issued in proceedings that bear no resemblance to fair trials," said Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, director of IHRNGO.

"The authorities appear determined to continue the mass killing of protesters, this time behind prison walls. The international community must act with urgency and determination to stop these executions. Saving the lives of detained protesters must be the highest priority in any dialogue or negotiations with the Islamic Republic."

Thousands were killed in months of anti-government protests against corruption, economic collapse and state repression.

Official figures put the death toll at 3,117. While the number cannot be independently confirmed by Middle East Eye, the US-based human rights activist news agency Hrana said on Monday that 6,508 protesters had been killed during weeks of protests.

On 16 February, the head of the country's judiciary said it would “prosecute and punish the main perpetrators of the unrest and terrorist acts” and to “act decisively and without any leniency”.

The next day, the judiciary announced that 8,843 indictments had been issued in relation to the demonstrations.

According to IHRNGO, 17-year-olds Matin Mohammadi and Erfan Amiri were among three protesters accused of attacking Seyed al-Shohada Mosque in Pakdasht on 8 January, leading to the deaths of two people. 

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They are among a number of minors who could face death penalty charges.

The rights group said that the authorities in Iran had been applying pressure and threats to defendants to prevent them from publicising their cases. 

There have been no official reports of death sentences for recent protesters, but hangings have continued.

IHRNGO reported that at least nine people were executed on Tuesday in Isfahan, Kashan, Tabriz, Qom and Neyshabur.

Hrana reported that at least 26 prisoners were hanged in 21 prisons over the weekend. Authorities said the cases involved drug crimes and murder.

Lawyers say the accused were denied access to legal representation or forced to confess under torture.

Amnesty International has previously said that Iran uses the death penalty to instil fear.