Iran has intensified executions of political prisoners and dissidents since the war began involving Israel and the US on February 28, 2026, escalating an already severe crackdown [1, 2]. In 2025, Iran accounted for 80% of the global surge in executions, putting to death at least 2,159 people—more than double the number from 2024 [1].

At least 784 executions have been documented so far in 2026, with the pace accelerating sharply since March [2]. Reports show Iran executed one political prisoner approximately every two days in the six weeks leading up to the end of April 2026 [1]. More than 40 political and security-related executions have occurred since the Iran war began, with at least 78 political prisoners currently on death row [1].

Between May 31 and June 1 alone, at least 18 prisoners were executed, including 12 on May 31 and 6 on June 1, with reports of public hangings marked by brutality [2]. From March 19 to June 1, Iranian dissident group NCRI reported 32 executions, including members of the People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran and participants in January 2026 protests [2].

The Iranian judiciary conducts rapid trials that limit legal representation and rely on coerced confessions, contributing to the number of executions [1, 2]. Authorities use the death penalty as a tool to suppress political opposition and silence dissent [1, 2]. A representative from the Iran Human Rights Society said, "These figures indicate a rapidly accelerating trend in executions since March. In particular, the execution of political prisoners has reached a level not seen in the past 37 years" [2].

The US State Department condemned the executions, stating, "We strongly condemn the Iranian regime’s use of executions to punish people for exercising basic human rights, including Iranians peacefully protesting for a better life" [2]. Maryam Rajavi, President-elect of NCRI, called it "another horrific crime in Iran" [2].

The ongoing war and internal unrest appear to fuel Iran's crackdown. Monitoring groups and dissidents continue to document executions amid the conflict and protests.