At least 30 people in Iran are facing the death penalty for their participation in the recent mass protests against the Iranian authorities, the human rights organization "Amnesty International" reported, quoted by DPA, BTA reported.
According to the organization, eight death sentences have already been issued. The remaining 22 cases are still being considered by Iranian courts, with two minors among the defendants. The Iranian judiciary has not yet officially confirmed any of the sentences.
A week ago, the Mizan news agency, which is affiliated with the Iranian judiciary, reported a trial against three men who could receive the death penalty for participating in riots. "Amnesty International" accuses the Iranian leadership of using the death penalty as a tool to suppress public discontent.
"The Iranian authorities have once again demonstrated complete disregard for the right to life and due process by threatening executions and imposing death sentences after speedy trials, just weeks after arrests," said Diana Eltahawi, Deputy Regional Director for the Middle East at "Amnesty International".
According to her, by turning the death penalty into a tool of pressure, the authorities aim to instill fear and break the will of society, which is demanding fundamental change.
As early as mid-January, the Iranian judiciary announced that the most serious cases of "participation in riots" would be considered with priority and in a separate judicial procedure. The head of the judiciary called for retribution for the security forces and police officers who died during the protests.