Iran using executions as 'a tool for repression', former UN prosecutor says

Iran using executions as 'a tool for repression', former UN prosecutor says

From Radio National Breakfast by ABC Australia

May 3, 2026 · 8 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the use of executions in Iran as a means of repression amidst ongoing human rights abuses and an internet crackdown.

The United Nations has warned civilians are being subjected to a range of human rights abuses with an internet crackdown continuing across the country. At least 21 people have been executed since the start of the war, with the United States and Israel two months ago - according to UN human rights chief Volker Turk. More than 4,000 people have been arrested on national security-related charges. Rights groups have also warned of detainees facing appalling conditions in Iran's prisons - including torture, sexual abuse and being forced to make confessions. It comes as the family of imprisoned Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi has raised the alarm over her condition - calling for her to be transferred to adequate medical facilities following a sharp deterioration in her health.

Topics covered

  • human rights
  • executions
  • Iran
  • repression
  • internet crackdown
  • prison conditions

Keywords

  • Iran
  • executions
  • human rights abuses
  • Narges Mohammadi
  • Volker Turk
  • internet crackdown
  • prison conditions

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: United Nations, United States, Israel

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