At least 24 Iranian demonstrators face execution for protests, report says

Tehran, Iran - At least 24 Iranian demonstrators are facing execution for joining protests critical of the authorities, according to a report published on Saturday.

Iranian rapper Mohsen Shekari was executed on Thursday after participating in anti-government protests.
Iranian rapper Mohsen Shekari was executed on Thursday after participating in anti-government protests.  © AFP

Etemad, an Iranian daily news outlet, published a list compiled by the judicial authorities accusing 25 demonstrators of "waging war against God," a charge which carries the death sentence under Islamic law.

Rap musician Mohsen Shekari, who was also listed, was executed on Thursday, having been accused of assaulting a security guard with a weapon, inciting terror, and blocking a road.

The judicial authorities announced that further executions are to take place.

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However, in the report, Etemad appealed to the judiciary to revise the death sentences and avoid further executions.

Shekari's execution drew powerful condemnation domestically and abroad. However, Iranian political leaders, including President Ebrahim Raisi, described the execution as a legitimate response to the nationwide riots.

The protesters threatened to retaliate, with the message "Wait for our revenge" shared in social media.

Meanwhile Iranians abroad plan to hold a series of protest rallies over the weekend.

The protests were triggered by the death of an Iranian Kurdish woman, Mahsa Amini, on September 16. She died in police custody after being arrested for violating Islamic dress codes.

Alongside international sanctions relating to the nuclear dispute, Tehran is also now also subject to sanctions for human rights violations.

Cover photo: AFP

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