13 Apr, 08:56··

Iran Executes Record Number of People in 2025

ZEIT Online

In 2025, Iran had a record number of executions. At least 1639 people were killed by the government. Human rights groups are worried about this increase.

Human rights organizations, including those reporting to the United Nations, documented a substantial rise in executions in Iran during 2025. The total number reached 1,639, which is the highest since 1989. These organizations believe the Iranian government is using executions to discourage protests. They are calling for international action to address the situation. The increase represents a 68% rise from 2024, when 975 executions were reported.

Summarized from the sources above. Read the originals for the full story.

Highlights

Record Executions in Iran

Iran executed at least 1639 people in 2025, a record high since 2008.

Executions Rise Significantly

Human rights organizations report over 1,600 executions in Iran in 2025.

Highest Number Since 1989

The number of executions is the highest since 1989.

UN Reports Record Deaths

The United Nations reports at least 1,639 executions in Iran in 2025.

Regime Uses Executions for Fear

Human rights organizations believe the Iranian regime uses executions to suppress protests.

Perspectives

Sources agree
  • Iran significantly increased executions in 2025.
  • The number of executions rose from 2024.
  • Human rights organizations reported the high number of executions.
  • This increase is a record high since 2008 or 1989.
Sources disagree
Cause of the increase in executions

The Iranian regime is using the death penalty to suppress protests and create fear.

New

The increase is due to concerns about human rights and an underreported total.

NOS Nieuws, ZEIT Online, France24

VS

Timeline

7d 1h span
6 Apr, 14:4513 Apr, 15:25
human rightsmiddle eastpoliticsexecutionsiran
Iran Executes Record Number of People in 2025 - SOVOX.eu