Iran carries out capital punishment for over 70 Afghan citizens in 2024, marking a 300% increase

In 2024, Iran has witnessed a dramatic increase in the execution of Afghan citizens, with reports indicating a nearly 300% rise compared to the previous year, Khaama Press reported yesterday citing Iran’s Human Rights Organization. It mentions that 72 Afghan nationals have been executed this year, primarily on charges related to drug trafficking.

The trend has escalated since the Taliban’s return to power, with executions occurring in various prisons, including Qezel Hesar, Mashhad, Esfahan, Shiraz, Yazd, and Bandar Abbas. In stark contrast, only 16 Afghans were executed in 2022, rising to 25 in 2023.

This alarming situation affects not just adult men but also women and children, highlighting severe human rights abuses faced by Afghan migrants. Many Afghan detainees criticize the Taliban for their lack of support regarding legal representation and basic needs while in Iranian prisons.

With nearly 95% of foreign prisoners in Iran being Afghan nationals, the rising execution rates underscore a systemic issue. Human rights experts warn that the absence of a legitimate Afghan government allows Iran to act with impunity, necessitating urgent international attention and action.