Iran upholds death sentence for Red Crescent employee

The Iranian Supreme Court has upheld the death sentence for Mojdeh Hashemi Bazargani, a 27-year-old employee of the Iranian Red Crescent. Bazargani faces charges of espionage and ‘moharebeh’ (enmity against God).

According to reports from the human rights organization Hengaw, Bazargani was arrested in April 2026 during a raid on her family home. The organization alleges that she was subjected to physical and psychological pressure during interrogation, leading to what they describe as ‘forced confessions.’ These confessions, which were broadcast on regional television, included claims of cooperating with the United States and Israel and providing military locations.

Hengaw further reports that Bazargani was denied access to legal counsel and sustained injuries to her head and neck during her detention. While the United States has expressed ongoing concerns regarding Iran’s use of the death penalty following trials lacking due process, Iranian authorities have not yet responded to the specific allegations regarding her arrest and interrogation.