Iran executes six accused of membership in banned group amid war

Iran has executed six men convicted of membership in the outlawed People's Mujahedeen of Iran (MEK) organization, according to state media reports. Vahid Baniamerian, a 34-year-old physics academic, was among those hanged. His family learned of his impending execution only through state media alerts, with a relative outside Iran calling the process "completely illegal, even based on their own oppressive laws."

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They did not give any warning. Even the lawyer didn’t know.

Human rights organizations claim Iran has executed dozens of political prisoners since a war involving the United States and Israel commenced in March. These executions reportedly target protesters, alleged members of banned groups, and individuals accused of spying. Activists suggest these actions are intended to instill fear and prevent a recurrence of earlier widespread protests.

The political climate in Iran is described as increasingly volatile following the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and his succession by his son, Mojtaba. With a fragile ceasefire now broken and the conflict resuming, rights groups express grave concern that Iranian authorities will exploit the situation to intensify the execution of political prisoners and silence opposition.

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It was completely illegal, even based on their own oppressive laws.

The Iran Human Rights (IHR) NGO warns that hundreds of political prisoners and protesters are currently facing capital charges, with approximately 100 already sentenced to death. The organization has repeatedly urged the international community, particularly the European Union, to make a moratorium on executions a central demand in any negotiations with Iran.

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With the breakdown of the ceasefire and the resumption of the war, we are deeply concerned that the authorities will exploit the situation to intensify the execution of political prisoners.