Iran executes over 500 people so far in 2026

Iran Human Rights (IHR) reports that at least 511 people have been executed in Iran so far in 2026. The figure includes 16 women, 13 political prisoners linked to banned opposition groups, and at least 29 individuals connected to anti-government protests that occurred in January.

Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, director of IHR, stated that the executions serve an internal purpose to “generate fear and avoid new protests.” The organization expressed concern that the trend of hangings may worsen in the coming months. The surge in capital punishment follows the outbreak of war involving Iran, the United States, and Israel on February 28.

Activists noted that international attention has been diverted toward the conflict and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, providing authorities more room to carry out executions. Additionally, some individuals have been executed in connection with the 2022 protests sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini. U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly called for an end to the executions, describing the situation as an “epic humanitarian crisis.”