Iran's Surge in Executions Aimed at Spreading Fear: Reports

Iran executed at least 582 people in 2022, a 75% increase from the previous year, with most of those executed convicted of murder or drug charges. However, two protesters were hanged in December on vague national security charges of "enmity against God" following "show trials" based on confessions obtained through torture. Dozens of protesters have reportedly been sentenced to death or charged with capital offences, with the surge in executions aimed at "spreading fear" among protesters, according to campaign groups. The report also highlights the lack of reaction from the United Nations and an "insidious link" between surges in executions and anti-government unrest.