'Staggering' Iran toll drives up global executions to their highest since 1981, says Amnesty International
Amnesty International reported a significant rise in global executions, reaching the highest levels since 1981, largely driven by Iran's increased use of the death penalty. In 2025, Iran executed over 2,150 individuals, more than double the previous year, amidst a crackdown on dissent following political unrest. The report highlights a troubling trend of rising executions in various countries, reflecting a broader pattern of governmental repression.
- ▪Amnesty International confirmed at least 2,707 executions globally in 2025, with 2,159 occurring in Iran alone.
- ▪The number of executions in Iran more than doubled compared to 2024, marking the highest figure recorded since 1981.
- ▪Other countries, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Egypt, also saw increases in their execution rates during the same period.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Supporters of Iranian dissident politician Maryam Rajavi wave pre-revolution Iranian flags as they march past the US Capitol, calling for the overthrow of the Islamic revolutionary government, in Washington, DC, on May 16, 2026. CHIP SOMODEVILLA / AFP Iran put to death over 2,150 people last year, a "staggering" increase that pushed recorded worldwide executions to their highest level since 1981, Amnesty International said Monday, May 17. Amnesty said it had confirmed the executions of at least 2,707 people globally in 2025. Of these cases, 2,159 were in Iran, a figure more than double that of 2024, Amnesty added.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Le Monde (EN).
Discussion
0 commentsMore from Le Monde (EN)
