Iran executes two men detained during January protests: rights groups

Iran: The Islamic Republic of Iran operates a judicial system that processes cases involving national security, protests, and security force incidents. Its authorities have overseen multiple executions tied to the January 2026 protests, with the judiciary often remaining silent on reports from rights groups. In this instance, it has not commented on the reported executions of two men from Isfahan. Alireza Raeisi: Alireza Raeisi is an Iranian individual detained in connection with the January 2026 protests in Isfahan and named as a defendant in the Alikhani Square case. Human rights organizations reported his execution alongside another man on October 5, 2026, at Dastgerd prison. The case has drawn scrutiny from international observers regarding due process. Alireza Sepahi: Alireza Sepahi is an Iranian individual arrested during the January 2026 nationwide protests in Isfahan and charged in the Alikhani Square case. Rights groups reported his execution on October 5, 2026, following prior delays due to health issues and appeals that were reportedly rejected. His case has been highlighted by advocates for concerns over trial procedures. • Alireza Sepahi, 25, was reportedly executed after being transferred to solitary confinement at Dastgerd prison. • A previous execution attempt was halted when Sepahi suffered a serious medical episode near the gallows and was hospitalized. • Alireza Raeisi, 21, was among defendants sentenced to death over alleged involvement in violence during January protests in Isfahan. • Human rights organizations have described the proceedings as mass trials involving torture allegations and due-process violations. • The reported executions follow Iran’s earlier public hangings of two other defendants in the same case, Abolfazl Sepahi and Amirhossein Safari.