Iran publicly hangs January protesters in Isfahan's Alikhani Square, sparking outrage

Iran publicly executed two protesters arrested during January demonstrations in Isfahan's Alikhani Square on Tuesday, sparking renewed outrage. The two men, Amirhossein Safari and Abolfazl Sepahi, were convicted on charges of moharebeh (waging war against God) for allegedly attacking police officers. Human rights groups estimate over 30,000 killed during the protests, while Tehran claims 3,117 died, including security forces. UN experts warn the death penalty is used to suppress dissent.

Iran publicly executed two protesters arrested during the January demonstrations in Isfahan's Alikhani Square on Tuesday morning, sparking renewed public outrage. The two men, Amirhossein Safari and Abolfazl Sepahi, were convicted on charges of moharebeh (waging war against God) and corruption on earth for allegedly attacking police officers with machetes and knives on January 8. Human rights groups estimate more than 30,000 people were killed by the regime during the December and January protests, while Tehran claims foreign-backed rioters caused 3,117 deaths, including 427 security personnel. The executions follow the July 19 hanging of two other protesters convicted in the same case. UN experts have warned that the death penalty is being used to instill fear and suppress dissent, noting that at least 24 people have been executed in connection with the protests since the start of 2026. The regime's decision to carry out the execution publicly in the square, rather than in secret, signals growing confidence following its perceived victory in the war and the suppression of protests, according to analyst Beni Sabti.