Iran Carries Out Death Sentences Against Two Men Linked to January Protests

Iranian authorities have executed two men convicted over their alleged roles in the anti-government protests that swept parts of the country in January 2026, according to the judiciary’s official news outlet, Mizan.

The men, identified as Javad Zamani and Abolfazl Saedi, were described by judicial authorities as “armed leaders” of unrest in the city of Shahrud during the nationwide demonstrations. Iranian courts found them guilty of charges including Moharebeh (“waging war against God”), “corruption on earth,” destruction of public and private property, and crimes against national security.

The executions mark the latest development in Iran’s extensive crackdown on protests that erupted in late 2025 and intensified in January 2026. The demonstrations, driven by economic hardship and broader political grievances, were met with a heavy security response that resulted in thousands of arrests and numerous deaths, according to human rights organizations.

Iranian authorities have repeatedly defended the use of harsh penalties against individuals accused of participating in violent acts during the unrest, arguing that such measures are necessary to protect public security and national stability. Judicial officials have previously warned that there would be “no leniency” for those found guilty of actions deemed to threaten state security.

However, international human rights groups have condemned the executions and raised concerns about the fairness of trials linked to the January protests. Organizations including Amnesty International and other rights monitors have alleged that some defendants were subjected to torture, coerced confessions, and expedited judicial proceedings before receiving death sentences.

The latest executions come amid growing international scrutiny of Iran’s handling of protest-related cases, with rights advocates warning that additional detainees connected to the January demonstrations may still face capital punishment.