Iran Human Rights and Democracy Caucus Co-Chairs Condemn Recent Surge in Executions in Iran

WASHINGTON -- Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) and Congressman Tom McClintock (CA-5), the Iran Human Rights and Democracy Caucus co-chairs, today voiced their profound condemnation of the recent surge in executions carried out by the Iranian regime, under the direct orders of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. This alarming escalation in state-sponsored violence underscores the regime’s blatant disregard for human life and international human rights norms.

In the span of just ten days, at least 37 individuals have been executed under various pretenses, aimed at instilling fear among the Iranian populace and stifling any dissent. Notable among these were the executions in Isfahan, Bandar Abbas, Gonbad Kavous, Tabriz, and Arak. These acts are not only reprehensible but also represent a systematic attempt by the regime to quash any form of opposition or criticism.

The increased brutality against Iranian women and girls is also disturbing. After protests erupted in 2022 due to the murder of Mahsa Amini by the Iranian morality police, the situation in Iran has continued to get more dangerous. We have heard numerous accounts of extreme violence and abuse inflicted upon women and girls for allegedly not wearing their hijabs properly or wearing clothes that the regime deems inappropriate.

As representatives of the American people and staunch advocates for human rights and democracy, we stand in solidarity with the people of Iran. We support their right to live in a society free of fear and repression and their right to express dissent without facing the ultimate punishment.

We call on the international community, particularly bodies such as the United Nations, the European Union, and human rights organizations worldwide, to join us in condemning these heinous acts. We urge immediate action to address this ruthless campaign of terror against the Iranian people. Furthermore, we implore the U.S. Administration to use all diplomatic and economic tools at its disposal to hold the Iranian regime accountable.

We will continue to monitor the situation closely and advocate for policies that promote human rights and democratic values in Iran and across the globe. The Iranian regime must understand that its actions have consequences and that the international community will not stand by in silence.

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