Iran ramps up executions under shadow of war

Iran has executed dozens of political prisoners, including five members of the People's Mujahedin organization, since the war with the United States and Israel began.

Vahid Baniamerian, a 34-year-old physics academic, was hanged along with five others on charges of membership in the People's Mujahedin; his family received no warning.

Rights groups warn that Iran may intensify executions following the breakdown of a ceasefire, with hundreds facing capital charges.

The Iran Human Rights NGO reports that 24 people have been hanged over January protests since the war started, and two over the 2022–2023 protest movement.