Security forces in Iran execute individual over assault during Mahsa Amini protests riots
In a controversial move, Iran executed Mehran Bahramian on Saturday, bringing the number of people hanged over the 2022 protests to at least 10. The Supreme Court had upheld Bahramian's death sentence, which was carried out in the early morning.
Bahramian was convicted for a deadly attack on security personnel in the city of Semirom, in the central province of Isfahan. According to reports, he was part of a group that opened fire on a vehicle carrying security personnel, resulting in the death of officer Mohsen Rezaei and injuries to others.
The attack occurred during nationwide protests that were sparked by the death of a young woman named Mahsa Amini in police custody. Thousands more were arrested during the protests, and hundreds of people were killed, including some members of the security forces.
Morad Bahramian, another brother of Mehran, was killed by security forces during the protests. The other brother of Mehran, named Fazel, was also condemned on the same charges related to the 2022 Iran protests. Rights groups have stated that Fazel was also sentenced to death.
Mehran Bahramian was charged with the capital offence of "moharebeh" - waging war against God. He was found guilty of shooting at a security vehicle and inciting people to attack government buildings and personnel.
Iran executes more people than any other country, except China, according to human rights groups including Amnesty International. The execution of Mehran Bahramian is likely to fuel international criticism and calls for an end to the death penalty in Iran.
The protests in Iran continue to be a source of tension and controversy, with the government cracking down on demonstrators and human rights groups calling for an end to the violence and repression. The execution of Mehran Bahramian is a grim reminder of the ongoing human rights crisis in the country.