Iran’s Record Surge in Executions Sparks Global Outcry: 280 Hanged in October Alone

A record 280 people were executed in October, according to the National Council of Resistance of Iran.AFP via Getty Images

Published October 26, 2025

Iran has witnessed an alarming surge in executions, with a record 280 individuals—36 women and 6 minors—hanged in October 2025 alone. This marks the highest monthly toll in three decades, doubling the number from October 2024. Between March and October 2025, at least 1,135 executions were reported, averaging over four per day.

The National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) has condemned these executions as a “tool of repression,” highlighting a 110% increase in executions compared to the previous year. The NCRI also reported that 36 women and 6 juvenile offenders were among those executed during the Persian month of Mehr (Sept 23–Oct 22).

Amnesty International has expressed deep concern over the Iranian authorities’ use of the death penalty, particularly for drug-related offenses, which they argue do not meet international standards for capital punishment. The organization has called for an immediate moratorium on executions and urged UN member states to press Iran to halt these practices.

In response to the escalating repression, over 800 Iranian activists, including political prisoners, have denounced the surge in executions, describing them as a mechanism of oppression and control. Despite the regime’s efforts to instill fear, resistance movements within Iran continue to defy the crackdown, vowing to end all forms of dictatorship.

The international community remains deeply concerned about the Iranian government’s increasing use of the death penalty and the broader implications for human rights in the country.

A noose with flowers is displayed during a demonstration against the rise in hangings in Iran.AFP via Getty Images

A record 1,135 people were executed in Iran over a seven-month period this year, according to the NCRI, prompting protests.AFP via Getty Images

There is mounting frustration against the regime of the Ayatollah in Iran over lack of access to basic goods.via REUTERS

 Implications

1. Human Rights Deterioration

   • The execution of women, minors, and political activists signals a deepening human rights crisis.

   • Iran risks further isolation from international human rights frameworks and criticism from global watchdogs.

2. Domestic Political Control

   • The surge serves as a mechanism of fear, reinforcing authoritarian rule and discouraging dissent.

   • It could stifle civil society, making organized activism more difficult and risky.

3. International Relations

   • Western governments and human rights organizations may impose sanctions or increase diplomatic pressure.

   • Iran’s global image is increasingly tarnished, potentially affecting trade, negotiations, and diplomatic alliances.

4. Social and Cultural Impact

   • Families of executed individuals face trauma, stigma, and economic hardship.

   • Widespread public executions risk normalizing extreme violence and desensitizing society.

5. Potential for Escalation or Backlash

   • Continued executions may provoke underground resistance, protests, or international advocacy campaigns.

   • The regime could face heightened domestic unrest if societal anger continues to grow.

 Overall Takeaway:

Iran’s unprecedented spike in executions, including women and minors, represents a stark intensification of state repression. The regime is using the death penalty as a tool to instill fear, suppress dissent, and maintain authoritarian control. Domestic and international condemnation—from activists, resistance groups, and human rights organizations—highlights the moral and political crisis this trend creates.

Without significant pressure from the international community or a shift in domestic dynamics, the use of executions is likely to continue, further eroding human rights protections and fueling social tension. The global spotlight on Iran’s human rights record may bring diplomatic and economic consequences, but the immediate future remains grim for those living under the threat of state-sanctioned death.

SOURCES: THE NEW YORK POST – Hundreds condemn Iran’s brutal rise in executions — as record 280 people are hanged in October: ‘Unprecedented intensity’

NCRI – Iran: 280 Executions in One Month, Unprecedented Record in 36 Years

IRAN FOCUS – Iran: 88 Public Executions In 12 Years