According to a report, at least 24 protesters are being executed in Iran for their involvement in the systemic protests. The Iranian daily newspaper “Etemad” published a list drawn up by the judiciary on Saturday accusing 25 demonstrators of “waging war against God”. According to Islamic legal opinion, this charge carries the death penalty.
Rap musician Mohsen Schekari, who is also on the list, was executed on Thursday. He allegedly attacked a member of the paramilitary Basij militia with a gun, caused terror and blocked a road.
Appeal to the judiciary to overturn death sentences
The judiciary announced further executions. In the report, “Etemad” appealed to the judiciary to overturn the death sentences and prevent further executions.
Shekari’s execution was strongly condemned at home and abroad. Iran’s political leaders, including President Ebrahim Raisi, describe it as a legitimate response to the country’s riots.
Nuclear deal increasingly unrealistic
The protesters threaten the system with retaliation. The message “Wait for our revenge” is circulating on social media. Over the weekend, Iranians abroad plan several protest rallies.
In addition to the international sanctions related to the nuclear dispute, more have now been imposed on Tehran for human rights violations. Iran has been in an acute economic crisis for more than four years. The only glimmer of hope left was an agreement in the nuclear dispute with the West. However, observers say such an agreement is far from realistic after the violent crackdown on the protests – and especially the first execution of a demonstrator.
“We don’t want an Islamic republic”
The Iranian leadership blames Iran’s “enemies” and their “mercenaries” at home for the protests. The majority of Iranians continue to support the Islamic system and will eventually defeat the “enemies” and end the protests, they say.
On the street, however, the situation is very different: “Death to the dictator” and “We don’t want an Islamic republic” were the slogans proclaimed daily by countless protesters for the past two and a half months. (SDA/no)