At least 1,639 people were executed in Iran in 2025, according to a new joint report by human rights organisations, marking the highest number recorded since 1989.
The report, released by Iran Human Rights and Together Against the Death Penalty, revealed that executions increased by about 68% compared to 2024, when 975 cases were recorded.
Sharp Rise in Executions
According to the findings, the number represents an average of more than four executions per day throughout 2025, highlighting what rights groups describe as an alarming escalation.
The organisations noted that the figure is likely an “absolute minimum,” as many executions are not publicly reported by Iranian authorities.
The report also revealed that:
- At least 48 women were among those executed
- The number of female executions is the highest in over 20 years
- Nearly half of the cases were linked to drug-related offences
- Public executions also increased during the year
Concerns Over Use of Death Penalty
Human rights groups warned that the growing number of executions may be tied to efforts to maintain control and suppress dissent, especially following protests and ongoing political tensions.
According to the report, hundreds of individuals detained during recent unrest could still face death sentences, raising fears of further increases in executions.
Experts say the death penalty is increasingly being used not just as a legal punishment, but also as a tool to instill fear and deter opposition.
Impact on Minorities and Vulnerable Groups
The report highlighted that ethnic minorities, including Kurdish and Baluch communities, are disproportionately affected by executions.
It also noted that some individuals executed, particularly women, were convicted in cases linked to domestic disputes or difficult personal circumstances.
Global Reactions
International human rights organisations have raised concerns over the trend, calling for:
- Greater transparency in Iran’s judicial process
- Reduction in the use of capital punishment
- Protection of detainees’ rights
- Independent investigations into reported cases
Iran remains one of the countries with the highest number of executions globally, alongside a small group of nations that continue to apply capital punishment extensively.
What Happens Next
Rights groups have warned that if current political and social tensions persist, the use of the death penalty in Iran could rise even further.
They are urging the international community to increase pressure for reforms and encourage adherence to global human rights standards.
JEI TV will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more information emerges.