Iran executed three men on Sunday after they were convicted of carrying out operations for Israel and the United States and taking part in armed unrest during anti-government protests in January, state media reported.
The judiciary said Hassan Dioband, Hamid Kazemi and Reza Zanganeh were accused of using firearms, grenades and Molotov cocktails, setting fire to public facilities and damaging an electricity substation in the city of Karaj, causing power outages in some areas. The judiciary said Dioband was arrested on Jan. 11 after investigations identified him as a suspect in attacks on public property and incitement to violence. Ten others accused of participating in the unrest under his supervision were subsequently arrested. The three men were sentenced to death and executed after the Supreme Court upheld their sentences; the other defendants received prison terms of five to 10 years. Their assets were also ordered confiscated.
The executions are the latest in a series Iran has carried out in recent months over the January protests, including of people accused of links to Israel and the U.S.
Analysis
Why This Matters
- Iran's execution of protest participants highlights ongoing repression of dissent and the use of foreign-links allegations to justify capital punishment.
- The international community may respond with sanctions or condemnation, affecting diplomatic relations.
- The continuation of executions suggests the government is intensifying its crackdown on perceived opposition.
Background
Iran experienced anti-government protests in January 2026, during which some participants were accused of ties to foreign powers. Since then, authorities have conducted multiple executions of individuals convicted in connection with the unrest, often citing links to Israel and the United States.
What to Watch
- Whether further executions of protest-related convicts occur.
- International reactions from the United States, Israel, and human rights organizations.
- New details on the scope of the January protests and the number of detainees still facing charges.