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Kerman: Several Baha’i Citizens Arrested by Security Forces

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News, Religious Minorities
Bahais, irgc, Kerman, Tharallah

HRANA – The Public Relations Office of the Tharallah IRGC of Kerman Province announced, in a statement, that several Baha’i citizens residing in the province have been arrested in connection with the nationwide protests.

According to Tasnim News Agency, the statement claims that these individuals had links with “operatives based in the United States and the Israeli regime” and that, as soon as what were described as “the riots” began in the country over the past week, they “formed a virtual group to coordinate and organize members and, in the form of operational teams, entered the scene of unrest and anti-security actions using various types of equipment and both cold and hot weapons.”

The statement further adds that several individuals have been arrested in Kerman, while other active and connected members have been identified and are being pursued.

The report does not provide any information regarding the identities, number, or place of detention of those arrested.

It is also worth noting that on Monday, the Ministry of Intelligence announced in a separate statement the arrest of 12 Baha’i citizens.

It should be noted that gatherings and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28. After two days, the scope of these actions expanded beyond bazaars and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests turned into one of the most widespread demonstrations in recent years. For more information, readers can refer to HRANA’s detailed report on the twenty-third day of protests, published last night.

Day Twenty-Three of the Protests: Internet Blackout, Media Clampdown, and Cancellation of Davos Invitation

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Freedom of Expression, News

HRANA – On the twenty-third day of nationwide protests, according to HRANA’s aggregated data, the number of confirmed fatalities has reached 4,029, while the number of fatalities under review stands at 9,049. Additionally, at least 5,811 people have sustained severe injuries during the protests, and the total number of arrests has risen to 26,015. Alongside the continued heavy security presence in various cities, reports today also pointed to widespread arrests as well as media and intelligence-related measures, including the suspension of Ham-Mihan newspaper and the ongoing restriction of communications.

As Iran nears the thirteenth day of the internet shutdown, prospects for access to foreign platforms remain uncertain, even in the event of a partial restoration of connectivity. The head of the Digital Transformation Commission of the Iran Computer Guild Organization stated that “given the current conditions, there is currently no space for reconnecting foreign platforms.”

Disruption of Communications

The widespread internet blackout and communications disruption in Iran, which according to reports has now entered its thirteenth day, continues to serve as a central tool for controlling public space and restricting the flow of information amid the protests. Indicators of Iran’s connectivity to the global internet have been reported at extremely low levels in recent days. At the same time, there have been reports of brief and intermittent connections which, rather than signaling a sustainable restoration of internet access, suggest a shift in tactics in the enforcement of restrictions.

In this context, NetBlocks has reported the continuation of the nationwide shutdown, while also noting signs that may indicate the testing of a domestic network (intranet) with even stricter filtering. If consolidated, such a scenario would further limit free access to the global internet and make independent information dissemination more difficult. These types of “limited re-openings” may be designed to maintain a minimal level of administrative and banking functions or to manage economic pressures, without restoring broad public access to communication tools and widely used platforms.

At the same time, government officials have attempted to present the timeline for the “return of the internet” as imminent. Hossein Afshin, the Vice President for Science and Technology, announced that the internet would return to normal “by order of the president” within the next two days or, at the latest, by the end of the week. He also stated that if the shutdown continues, “fixed IPs” would be provided for large companies, a solution critics consider inadequate, as without public access for citizens, service cycles and the digital economy would remain disrupted.

However, other statements indicate that even in case of “restored connectivity,” reopening foreign platforms and returning to previous conditions is far from certain. The head of the Digital Transformation Commission of the Iran Computer Guild Organization stated that, given current circumstances, the issue of lifting filtering has been postponed and that “at present, reconnecting foreign platforms is not possible.” This stance highlights the gap between “internet connectivity” and “meaningful access,” suggesting that communications policy may move toward a restricted, selective internet based on heightened control.

The consequences of the internet blackout have extended far beyond communications, affecting a wide range of daily activities, businesses, access to medical and emergency services, and even the flow of information regarding arrests and the condition of the injured. The disruption of communications, particularly amid intensified repression, increases the risk of enforced disappearances, pressure on families, and difficulties in independently verifying events. The disruption of communications, particularly amid intensified repression, increases the risk of enforced disappearances, pressure on families, and difficulties in independently verifying events, and effectively leads to the imposition of a state of deliberate ambiguity over the public sphere.

In line with this information-control policy, Ham-Mihan newspaper was also suspended today by the Press Supervisory Board. The editor-in-chief of the newspaper stated that the suspension was due to the publication of two articles, one of which addressed the issue of the “violation of medical neutrality during the protests” under the headline “The Hospital Story from Ilam to Sina.” The suspension of this newspaper, alongside internet restrictions, can be assessed as a simultaneous escalation of pressure on domestic media and tighter control over the public narrative.

Heightened Security Atmosphere

Today, a security atmosphere continued to prevail in many cities across Iran. These included the visible presence of law enforcement and security forces in streets and high-traffic areas, as well as increased field controls and heightened sensitivity toward even small gatherings. Reports from some areas point to the widespread deployment of forces, checkpoints, motorcycle patrols, and an increased level of “citizen monitoring.” In this context, the presence of security forces is not limited solely to managing gatherings but contributes to the creation of a deterrent and fear-inducing atmosphere across cities, particularly as night falls.

Alongside this situation, reports of arrests in various cities were also published today. According to HRANA, following the nationwide protests, six citizens were arrested in Rafsanjan, one citizen in Sirjan, and “several individuals” in cities across Semnan Province. Additionally, in Marivan, Pishva Salehi was arrested by security forces and transferred to an undisclosed location. In Malard, the arrest of another citizen was reported, and at the same time a video of their forced confessions was released, although the circumstances under which it was recorded remain unclear. Taken together, these cases indicate that arrests continue to be one of the main tools for on-the-ground suppression of protests and the creation of public fear.

At the same time, the announcement of mass arrests in Razavi Khorasan highlights the government’s security and intelligence measures. The province’s General Directorate of Intelligence reported the arrest of 192 citizens in connection with the protests. The publication of such official or semi-official figures, in addition to serving operational purposes, may also function as a form of threatening messaging aimed at social deterrence.

International Reactions

At the international level, one of the most significant developments today was the cancellation of Abbas Araghchi’s invitation to attend the World Economic Forum (Davos), a move that drew widespread attention. According to published reports, Araghchi was scheduled to participate on Tuesday, January 20, in a session titled “Shaping Cooperation in a Fragmenting World” in a lecture and Q&A format. However, the World Economic Forum announced that his invitation had been withdrawn.

At the regional level as well, it has been reported that developments in Iran were discussed during diplomatic contacts, with some governments emphasizing the need to monitor trends and pursue regional coordination. Taken together, these developments indicate that Iran’s recent protests and the authorities’ violent crackdown are simultaneously exerting a significant impact across the realms of political pressure, media attention, and the diplomatic sphere.

Government Reactions

In response to external pressure and reactions, as well as the continuation of protests, officials of the Islamic Republic once again emphasized a security and judicial measures in confronting the situation.

One of the most significant official positions today was a joint statement issued by the heads of the three branches of government. In this statement, Masoud Pezeshkian, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, and Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei called for “leniency and compassion toward those who were deceived,” while simultaneously stressing the need for “decisive punishment of terrorist instigators.” This dual framing, distinguishing between the “deceived” and the “instigator-terrorist”, has in recent days become a recurring element of official rhetoric and provides justification for harsher judicial and security measures against a segment of detainees.

Along the same lines, the Commander-in-Chief of Iran’s Law Enforcement Forces (FARAJA) adopted a threatening tone. Ahmadreza Radan, while claiming that “complete security” prevails in cities, warned protesters that forces under his command would go after those who have not yet been arrested “one by one,” adding that they would be pursued “until the last person.” He also stated that “those who were misled must turn themselves in.” Beyond their threatening nature, these remarks convey a clear message about the continuation of arrests and retroactive prosecutions even after a temporary decline in street protests.

In the judicial sphere, emphasis was also placed on accelerating legal proceedings. Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei stated that cases involving detainees must be handled “swiftly” and that delays in addressing the cases of the “main figures behind the unrest” would not be acceptable, a stance that, given past experience with security-related cases, raises concerns about fair trial standards and increased pressure on detainees.

On the diplomatic front, reactions were also voiced regarding the Davos decision. Among them, Iran’s ambassador to Switzerland reportedly described the cancellation of Araghchi’s invitation as an action “under the influence of the United States and Israel,” arguing that it damaged the credibility of the World Economic Forum. This position aligns with the official narrative that attributes the protests and their consequences to foreign interference

Statistics

Based on aggregated data recorded through the end of the twenty-third day of protests:

  • Number of recorded protest gatherings: 625

  • Number of cities involved (no duplicates): 188

  • Number of provinces involved (no duplicates): 31

  • Confirmed fatalities: 4,029

    • ▪️ Protesters: 3,786

    • ▪️ Children (under 18): 28

    • ▪️ Government-affiliated forces (military and non-military): 180

    • ▪️ Non-protesters/civilians: 35

  • Fatalities under review: 9,049

  • Severely injured: 5,811

  • Total arrests: 26,015

  • Broadcast of forced confessions (documented cases): 167

Given the severe communication restrictions, the prevailing security atmosphere, and the lack of free access to information, the actual figures may be higher than those listed above. The statistics presented here are based solely on individual-based reports received and cases that could be verified.

Summary of the Twenty-Third Day

The twenty-third day of protests passed amid the continued internet blackout and intensified information control on one hand, and the persistence of arrests and a pervasive security atmosphere on the other. At the international level, the cancellation of Abbas Araghchi’s invitation to Davos emerged as a notable sign of increased political pressure. Domestically, government officials, combining “promises of leniency” with “threats of decisive punishment,” reiterated their commitment to a security-driven approach in confronting the protests.

192 Protesters Arrested by Ministry of Intelligence in Razavi Khorasan Province

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Freedom of Expression, News
iran protests, Razavi Khorasan

HRANA – The General Directorate of Intelligence of Razavi Khorasan announced that it has arrested 192 citizens in the province in connection with the protests.

In a statement, the General Directorate of Intelligence of Razavi Khorasan claimed that these citizens were involved in the killing of six law enforcement–security forces in the province during the protests.

The statement also listed “setting fire to mosques, public and service facilities, buses, and attacking military and law enforcement centers” as additional charges brought against the detainees.

It further claimed that firearms and cold weapons were discovered in the possession of these citizens.

The report did not provide any information regarding the identities of the detainees or their place of detention.

It is worth noting that gatherings and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28, and after two days spread beyond bazaars and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests turned into one of the most widespread demonstrations in recent years. For more information, readers may refer to HRANA’s detailed report on the twenty-second day of the protests, published last night.

Shima Ghosheh, Attorney, Arrested

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Freedom of Expression, News
Shima Ghosheh, Tehran, شیما قوشه

HRANA – Shima Ghosheh, a Tehran-based attorney, was arrested by security forces at her private residence on Friday, January 16, and transferred to an undisclosed location.

Her arrest was carried out by security forces on Friday at her home in Tehran. No information is currently available regarding the reasons for her arrest, her place of detention, or the charges brought against her. However, it is believed that her arrest may be related to the nationwide protests.

This attorney has previously faced judicial action in connection with her professional activities.

It is worth noting that protests and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28, and after two days spread beyond bazaars and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these demonstrations developed into one of the most widespread protests in recent years. For more information, readers may refer to HRANA’s detailed report on the twenty-first day of the protests, published last night.

At Least 17 Prisoners Executed in Various Prisons Across Iran

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Executions, News
Aligudarz Prison, Borujerd Prison, Kermanshah prison, Khorramabad Prison, Yasuj Prison

HRANA – Amid nationwide protests and the ongoing, widespread internet shutdown in Iran, authorities have carried out the death sentences of at least 17 prisoners in various prisons across the country. The individuals had previously been convicted on charges including murder, drug-related offenses, and moharebeh (enmity against God) through armed robbery.

Based on information received by HRANA, on January 18, Yazdan Mardanpour was executed in Kermanshah Prison; Fereydoun Goodarzi in Aligudarz Prison; Pouya Najafi in Dezful Prison; Bijan Shahrokhi in Khorramabad Prison; Akbar Ganji in Nahavand Prison; Ali Asghar Shahi in Yasuj Prison; and Shiroodeh Maqsoodi in Borujerd Prison. These individuals had previously been arrested on murder charges and were later sentenced to death by criminal courts.

Additionally, Asad Salahshour in Semnan Prison, Eshagh Niazi in Arak Prison, and Sousha Abdi in Hamedan Prison were executed. These prisoners had been sentenced to death on charges related to drug-related offenses.

On the same day, Abdolhassan Yari was executed in the Central Prison of Karaj, along with two other prisoners in Qom Prison, one of whom has been identified by HRANA as Mostafa Kooshki, on charges of moharebeh through armed robbery.

Earlier, at dawn on Saturday, January 17, the death sentences of four prisoners were carried out. Aboutaleb Gholami in Tabriz Prison and Yarmorad Bakhshi in Ardabil Prison were executed on murder charges, while Malek Kavehei in Bandar Abbas Prison and Afshin Akhbari in Qazvin Prison were executed on drug-related charges.

Further details, including the identification of one of the prisoners, are still under investigation by HRANA.

As of the time of this report, these executions have not been officially announced by prison authorities or relevant institutions.

The continued large-scale implementation of death sentences amid internet shutdowns and severe restrictions on the flow of information has intensified concerns over the lack of judicial transparency, prisoners’ denial of access to fair trials, and the increased risk of violations of the right to life. Human rights organizations have repeatedly warned that carrying out such punishments in a security-driven and opaque environment significantly increases the likelihood of serious human rights violations.

According to HRA’s annual report, at least 2,063 people were executed in Iran during the one-year period from January 1, 2025, to January 1, 2026. This represents a 119% increase in executions compared to 2024. In many of these cases, due to secrecy, prisoners were even denied the right to a final visit with their families.

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Day Twenty-Two of the Protests: The Scale of the Killings Grows as the Internet Shutdown Continues

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Freedom of Expression, News
HRANA, internet shutdown, iran protests

HRANA – On the twenty-second day of nationwide protests in Iran, amid the continued widespread internet shutdown and reports of limited and unstable connections in some areas, the wave of arrests continued in various cities. At the same time, senior government officials intensified their threatening rhetoric in response to external pressure. According to verified case-based statistics as of the end of this day, 3,919 people have been killed, while 8,949 additional deaths are still under investigation by HRANA. Additionally, 2,109 people have been severely injured, and the number of confirmed detainees has reached 24,669. Alongside these developments, numerous reports have emerged of increased pressure on families, difficulties in handing over the bodies of those killed, and the continuation of a heavy security atmosphere in some regions.

Amid the ongoing severe disruption of internet access and communications, reports point to rising fatalities, widespread arrests, and an intensified security presence across cities nationwide.

Disruption of Communications

On the twenty-second day, following several days of an almost complete internet shutdown, reports emerged of limited and unstable internet connectivity in some parts of the country. These intermittent connections allowed a portion of the accumulated information and images from previous days to reach independent sources with delay, revealing the broader scope of the crackdown and killings.

According to information received, with the partial restoration of internet access, images and reports from forensic medicine centers, morgues, and burial sites of those killed were published, indicating a high number of bodies that had not been handed over and pressure on families to remain silent and conduct nighttime burials. In some cases, families reported that the delivery of their loved ones’ bodies was made conditional on signing written pledges or accepting the official narrative.

Despite these intermittent connections, global internet access remains severely disrupted in most parts of the country. The sending and receiving of information is widely reported as unstable, and many citizens are only able to communicate during short time windows. This situation continues to seriously hinder independent reporting, accurate documentation of events, and the completion of human rights statistics.

Foreign Reactions

At the international level, reactions to the crackdown on protests and the internet shutdown continued, with harsher positions voiced in some political circles compared to previous days. In the United States, statements circulated emphasizing the need for change in Iran’s leadership structure and holding the highest levels of the ruling establishment responsible for the violence.

At the same time, discussions about expanding sanctions, limiting diplomatic relations, and preventing the normalization of engagement with the Islamic Republic were raised in political circles and parliaments of several countries. A number of governments also issued new security advisories for their citizens, warning about Iran’s unstable domestic situation.

Government Responses

Inside the country, government officials responded to foreign positions by reinforcing a security-based narrative of the protests, describing protesters using rhetoric such as “affiliation with the enemy” and “threats to national security.” At the same time, Iran’s president warned that any “attack” on the Supreme Leader would amount to “all-out war,” a stance that received widespread attention in both domestic and international media.

On the security front, the Ministry of Intelligence announced in a statement that more than 300 citizens had been arrested on charges it described as “leading the protests.” In addition, numerous reports emerged of arrests in various cities, including the detention of a lawyer in Tehran and scattered arrests in several other cities.

Some military and security institutions have also reported the arrest of protesters in different provinces. In some cases, videos of so-called “confessions” by detainees have been released, though the circumstances under which they were recorded remain unclear. The continuation of this trend has heightened concerns about increased pressure on detainees and the use of forced confessions.

The judiciary has likewise defended the ongoing measures, stating that cases related to detainees are being processed swiftly.

Government Responses

Inside the country, government officials responded to foreign positions by reinforcing a security-based narrative of the protests, describing protesters using rhetoric such as “affiliation with the enemy” and “threats to national security.” At the same time, Iran’s president warned that any “attack” on the Supreme Leader would amount to “all-out war,” a stance that received widespread attention in both domestic and international media.

On the security front, the Ministry of Intelligence announced in a statement that more than 300 citizens had been arrested on charges it described as “leading the protests.” In addition, numerous reports emerged of arrests in various cities, including the detention of a lawyer in Tehran and scattered arrests in several other cities.

Some military and security institutions have also reported the arrest of protesters in different provinces. In some cases, videos of so-called “confessions” by detainees have been released, though the circumstances under which they were recorded remain unclear. The continuation of this trend has heightened concerns about increased pressure on detainees and the use of forced confessions.

The judiciary has likewise defended the ongoing measures, stating that cases related to detainees are being processed swiftly.

Statistics (Cumulative as of the End of Day Twenty-Two)

Based on verified, case-by-case data through the end of the twenty-second day of protests:

• Number of recorded protests: 624

• Total confirmed fatalities: 3,919

Protesters: 3,685

Children under 18: 25

Military and government forces: 178

Non-protesting civilians: 31

• Deaths under investigation: 8,949

• Severely injured: 2,109

• Detainees (arrested or identified): 24,669

• Broadcast forced confessions: 145 cases

These figures are based solely on verified individual reports. Given the internet shutdown, communication restrictions, and limited independent access to information, the actual numbers are likely significantly higher than reported.

Summary

The twenty-second day of protests was marked by the continued widespread internet disruption, reports of limited and unstable connectivity, and an intensified security atmosphere accompanied by ongoing arrests. At the political level, the escalation of threatening rhetoric by government officials, alongside continued international reactions, indicates that the crisis remains on an upward trajectory. With communication restrictions persisting, a substantial number of casualties and instances of repression remain under investigation, and confirmed figures are likely to increase in the coming days.

Execution of at Least 22 Prisoners on Charges of Murder and Drug-Related Offenses

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Executions, News
Bojnurd, Bushehr, Damghan, Esfarayen, Ferdows, HRANA, Mahabad, Malayer, Mashhad, mass executions, Nowshahr, Quchan, Sanandaj

HRANA – Amid nationwide protests and the continued widespread internet shutdown in Iran, between January 12 to January 15, 2026, the death sentences of at least 22 prisoners, including one woman, were carried out in various prisons across the country. These individuals had previously been sentenced to death on charges including murder, drug-related crimes, and moharebeh (enmity against God) through armed robbery.

Based on HRANA’s findings, on Monday, January 12, 2026, Arta Saei was executed in Nowshahr Prison on a charge of murder. On January 13, four other prisoners were executed: Akram Rezaei (female) and Hamzeh Jafari, both on murder charges in Rasht Prison; Kourosh Bozorgmehr on a charge of moharebeh through armed robbery in Sanandaj Prison; and Mohammadjavad Naeimi on a murder charge in Gonabad Prison.

On Wednesday, January 14, 11 prisoners who had previously been sentenced to death on murder charges were executed in various prisons. Among them were three prisoners in Shiraz Prison, one of whom has been identified as Sharif Dehghani; Armin Aghapour in Bushehr Prison; Jalil Shahbazi in Mashhad Prison; Ali Agha Hemmati in Chabahar Prison; Mousa Askari in Damghan Prison; Mehrshad Asadabadi in Mahabad Prison; Seyed Ali Hatami in Ferdows Prison; Ehsan Ansari in Quchan Prison; and Aziz Morad Hosseini in Esfarayen Prison. On the same day, Borzou Mahdinia was executed in Malayer Prison and Farshad Heydari-Kia in Bojnurd Prison. These two prisoners had previously been sentenced to death on drug-related charges.

Continuing on Thursday, January 15, four more prisoners were executed on murder charges. On that day, Azim Omari was executed in Behbahan Prison; Saleh Kaabi in Mahshahr Prison; Omid Jamshidi in Sari Prison; and an Afghan national in Taybad Prison.

Further details, including the identification of three of the prisoners, are still under investigation by HRANA.

As of the time of this report, the executions have not been officially announced by prison authorities or relevant institutions.

The continued large-scale implementation of death sentences amid internet shutdowns and severe restrictions on the flow of information has intensified concerns over the lack of judicial transparency, prisoners’ denial of access to fair trials, and the heightened risk of violations of the right to life. Human rights organizations have repeatedly warned that carrying out executions in a securitized and opaque environment increases the likelihood of serious human rights abuses.

According to the HRA’s annual report, at least 2,063 people were executed in Iran during the one-year period from January 1, 2025, to January 1, 2026. This represents a 119% increase in executions compared to 2024. In many of these cases, due to secrecy, prisoners were even denied the right to a final visit with their families.

Day Twenty-One of the Protests: Islamic Republic’s Leader Acknowledges “Thousands Killed” as Internet Shutdown Continues

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Freedom of Expression, News
Ali Khamenei, crackdown, HRANA, iran protests, irgc

HRANA – On the twenty-first day of nationwide protests in Iran, despite the continued widespread internet blackout and intense security pressure, confirmed figures show that the total number of verified deaths has reached 3,308, with another 4,382 cases still under review. So far, 2,107 people with severe injuries have been identified, and the arrest of at least 24,266 individuals has been confirmed. On this day, the Leader of the Islamic Republic for the first time acknowledged that “several thousand people” had been killed during the protests. The release of new images from forensic medicine centers, an increase in mass arrests, and the intensification of international reactions were among today’s most significant developments.

On the twenty-first day of nationwide protests, while the widespread internet shutdown had exceeded 200 hours, international concerns and warnings over human rights violations continued to grow. At the same time, independent documentation efforts, including broad public calls for participation in recording evidence of human rights abuses, intensified.

Ongoing Communications Disruptions

The nationwide internet shutdown, which began on Thursday night, January 8, passed the 200-hour mark on the twenty-first day and continues. Although very limited and brief increases in connectivity were reported at certain points in recent hours, overall access to the global internet remains at only a few percent of normal levels.

The continuation of this situation has caused severe disruptions to citizens’ communications, independent information-sharing, and the transfer of information from inside the country. Families of those killed or detained are facing serious difficulties in following up on the status of their loved ones, and the process of collecting and verifying human rights information is encountering unprecedented delays and limitations.

Meanwhile, media outlets close to security institutions have reported the limited activation of messaging applications and what they refer to as the “national internet,” a measure that, according to these sources, aims to control communications and sever connections between networks outside the country and those inside. Nevertheless, the global internet is still reported to be cut off, and no specific timeline has been announced for the full restoration of connectivity.

International Reactions

At the international level, reactions to developments in Iran intensified on the twenty-first day. The U.S. president, in his latest remarks, stated that “the time has come to look for new leadership in Iran,” holding the Islamic Republic responsible for the country’s destruction. These comments followed his earlier remarks about the non-implementation of hundreds of death sentences in Iran.

In another development, the Argentine government designated the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization and imposed sanctions on individuals linked to it. Additionally, the U.S. State Department announced financial rewards and relocation assistance for information related to the financial activities of the IRGC. The president of the European Parliament also stated that efforts to place the IRGC on the list of terrorist organizations would continue.

Government Reactions

Inside the country, Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic, while acknowledging that “several thousand people” were killed during the protests, described protesters and their foreign supporters as “criminals” and threatened to confront what he called “domestic and international seditionists.”

At the same time, the Tehran prosecutor denied claims about the cancellation of protesters’ executions, stating that the judiciary’s response would be “decisive, swift, and deterrent.” He added that a large number of cases had resulted in indictments and been referred to court.

On the same day, law enforcement officials also reported widespread arrests, including more than 1,500 people detained in Gilan Province.

Statistics (as of the End of Day 21)

Based on case-by-case, verified data compiled by HRANA through the end of the twenty-first day of the protests:

• Recorded protests: 621 cases

• Confirmed fatalities: 3,308 people

Protesters: 3,097

Children under 18: 22

Military and government forces: 166

Non-protesting civilians: 23

• Deaths under investigation: 4,382 cases

• Severely injured: 2,107 people

• Arrested individuals: 24,266 people

• Broadcast forced confessions: 132 cases

Note: These figures are based solely on individually verified cases. Given the internet shutdown and severe communication restrictions, the actual human toll of the ongoing protests in Iran may be significantly higher than these numbers.

Conclusion

The twenty-first day of nationwide protests in Iran was marked by the continued internet blackout, mounting evidence of the scale of the crackdown, and an unprecedented acknowledgment by the Leader of the Islamic Republic of the extent of the fatalities. At the same time, escalating international reactions and solidarity gatherings abroad, alongside the government’s continued security and judicial approach, indicate that the crisis is still on an intensifying trajectory.

Day 20 of Protests: Continued Internet Blackout and Human Rights Groups Focus on Documenting the Crackdown

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Freedom of Expression, News
HRANA, internet shutdown, iran protests, nationwide protests, Spreading Justice

HRANA – By the end of the twentieth day of the protests, the total number of confirmed deaths has reached 3,090, with 3,882 additional cases still under review. At least 2,055 people have been reported with severe injuries, and the number of arrests has risen to 22,123. The continuation of the nationwide internet shutdown, intensified diplomatic and security reactions at the international level, and the persistence of security and judicial crackdowns inside the country were among the most notable developments of the day.

Alongside developments on the ground, foreign reactions, centered on concerns over the human rights situation, the withdrawal of diplomats, and increased political pressure, continued. Domestically, government officials, while blaming foreign actors, emphasized a security-based narrative of the protests.

Disruption of Communications

The widespread shutdown and disruption of communications, which began on the evening of January 8, continued into the twentieth day and, according to reports, has entered its second week after more than 190 hours. During this period, access to both fixed-line and mobile internet in large parts of the country has faced severe restrictions, with messaging services, internet calls, access to public information, and media communications cut off.

The consequences of this situation have gone beyond limitations on information flow. Reports indicate difficulties for citizens in accessing basic services (including online banking and administrative services), heightened concern among families about the condition of detainees, and increasing obstacles to documenting and following up on human rights violations. At the same time, the internet shutdown has posed serious challenges to field verification and the collection of evidence.

Some foreign institutions and officials have explicitly emphasized that cutting communications can facilitate the concealment of violence and repression. Inside the country as well, scattered reports have emerged of increased security controls over access to information and intensified pressure on alternative communication channels.

In response to this information vacuum, HRANA today issued a public call urging citizens, eyewitnesses, and individuals with access to reliable documents, images, and videos to participate in the independent documentation of the protests. Emphasizing the vital role of citizen witnesses under conditions of internet shutdown, the call stressed the need to prevent the distortion of facts and to accurately record human rights violations.

International Reactions

At the international level, Iran remained at the center of attention. In the United States, the U.S. president stated that Iran had refrained from carrying out more than 800 execution sentences due to political pressure, remarks that were accompanied by renewed calls to halt violence against protesters.

In Europe, the cancellation of invitations to officials of the Islamic Republic to attend the Munich Security Conference drew widespread attention and was seen as a sign of Iran’s growing diplomatic isolation. At the same time, some governments expressed concern over the safety of their nationals in Iran and advised them to leave the country or reduce the level of diplomatic presence.

Continuing these reactions, a number of governments and international bodies once again emphasized the need for accountability for perpetrators of human rights violations. In this context, international documentation and accountability initiatives have received increased attention, a development directly linked to the situation on the ground and communication restrictions in Iran.

Alongside growing international focus on accountability, legal documentation projects have also gained greater importance. Within this framework, Spreading Justice, HRA’s database of human rights violators in Iran, announced that information received about human rights violators, after multi-layered verification, will be recorded in the form of documented case files and legal analyses, to serve as a basis for international legal action and to counter the systematic impunity of human rights violators.

Government Responses

In response to external pressure, Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the G7 statement on the suppression of protests as “interventionist.” At the same time, Iranian officials have sought to justify the crackdown by emphasizing security imperatives and asserting its legal basis, while rejecting or downplaying international criticism.

Meanwhile, in several high-profile cases involving detainees, Iran’s judiciary has stated that the charges do not necessarily carry the death penalty. At the same time, law enforcement and judicial authorities have continued to emphasize a policy of “swift and harsh” responses to protests, a stance that has intensified concerns over escalating violence, mass arrests, and mounting pressure on detainees’ families.

Statistics Through the End of Day 20

By the end of the twentieth day, based on aggregated recorded data:

• Number of protests recorded: 619 (across 187 cities in 31 provinces)

• Total confirmed deaths: 3,090

Of these, at least 2,885 were protesters, 165 were government/security forces, and 21 were non-protesting civilians

Children (under 18) among the deceased: at least 19

• Deaths under review: 3,882

• Severely injured: 2,055

• Arrests: 22,123 cases

• Broadcast forced confessions: 132 cases

Conclusion

The twentieth day was marked by the continuation of the nationwide internet shutdown, which entered its second week, alongside escalating diplomatic and security pressure on the Islamic Republic. Internationally, developments ranging from formal meetings to governments advising their nationals to leave Iran reflected growing concern over the situation in the country. Domestically, the persistence of hardline security and judicial positions has reinforced fears of increased violence and intensified repression.

Execution of at Least 52 Prisoners in Iran on Murder and Drug-Related Charges

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Executions, News
executions, executions in iran, HRANA, mass executions, Nowshahr, Sanandaj

HRANA – Concurrent with nationwide protests in Iran and amid a widespread internet shutdown across the country, the execution of at least 52 prisoners has been reported in 42 different prisons. These individuals had previously been sentenced to death on charges including murder, drug-related offenses, and other non-political and non-security-related accusations.

Their sentences were carried out between January 5 to 14, 2026. These executions took place under conditions in which public access to information was severely restricted, and independent oversight of judicial proceedings and the implementation of sentences was effectively impossible.

A review of the information received by HRANA indicates that despite the imposition of severe communication restrictions nationwide, the implementation of death sentences continued without interruption. Based on these findings, the executions were carried out in at least 42 prisons across various provinces of Iran, covering a wide range of geographical areas.

Between Monday, January 5 to 12, at least 37 prisoners were executed in various prisons across the country:
Mohammadjavad Rasouli executed in Nowshahr Prison on Monday, January 5; Arsalan Arabi in Rasht Prison on Tuesday, January 6; and Mahyar Mohammadi in Sanandaj Prison on Wednesday, January 7, all on murder charges. Additionally, on Saturday, January 10, multiple executions on murder charges were recorded in different prisons, including Mostafa Sheikhi in Khorramabad Prison, Samyar Emkani in Kermanshah Prison, Ebrahim Rayati in Hamedan Prison, Bahman Shokri in Dezful Prison, and Masoud Mardani in Yasuj Prison.

Furthermore, on Sunday, January 11, the executions of Simrad Zali in Borujerd Prison, Ayin Mousavi in Qom Prison, Hamid Khatib in Ardabil Prison, Jabbar Gholipour in Qazvin Prison, and Alireza Bagheri in Tabriz Prison were reported, all on murder charges. Also, on Monday, January 12, the executions of Ali Teymouri in Gorgan Prison, Parviz Khani in Neyshabur Prison, Sobhan Ghasemi in Dorud Prison, Hossein Jalili in Zanjan Prison, Javad Bahrami in Saveh Prison, Sajad Bamari in Kerman Prison, and Habibollah Shakeri in Kashan Prison were reported on murder charges.

In addition to murder charges, a number of the executions were reported to have been carried out on drug-related charges. Ahmad Hemmati was executed in Gonabad Prison on Wednesday, January 7; Khodarahm Mehri in Esfarayen Prison on the same day; Vali Karambeigi-Nejad in Quchan Prison on Thursday, January 8; Mehdi Babaei in Nahavand Prison on Saturday, January 10; Abdolhossein Zakipour in Arak Prison on Sunday, January 11; and Mola Joozipour in Semnan Prison on Sunday, all on charges related to drug offenses.

During the current week, a new wave of executions has been reported. On Saturday, January 10, the execution of two prisoners in Karaj Prison on drug-related charges was recorded; the identity of one of them was announced as Sasan Amini. On the same day, the execution of three prisoners in Aligudarz Prison on murder charges was reported, with the identities of two of them announced as Reza Shahmohammadi and Younes Parsa. On Sunday, January 11, the execution of two prisoners in Bandar Abbas Prison on murder charges was also reported, with the identity of one of them announced as Behzad Niazi. Additionally, on Monday, January 12, the execution of four prisoners in Isfahan Prison on murder charges was recorded, with the identity of one of them announced as Sattar Ahmadi.

On Tuesday, January 13, at least 10 prisoners were executed in various prisons across the country. According to available information, six prisoners were executed on murder charges, including Sohrab Fathi in Birjand Prison, Morteza Gholami in Ilam Prison, Mohammad-Amin Boghlani in Ahvaz Prison, Hamed Latifi in Yazd Prison, Najafali Navabi in Jiroft Prison, and Jalal Bakhtiari in Borazjan Prison. On the same day, Karim Piri in Bam Prison, Keyomars Sanaei in Khaf Prison, and Aziz Alipanahi in Yazd Prison were executed on charges related to drug offenses, and another prisoner was executed in Yazd on non-political and non-security-related charges.

On Wednesday, January 14, the execution of at least five prisoners on murder charges was also reported: Dariush Bozorgi  in Mahabad Prison; Mostafa Azizi and Arman Mohammadian in Kashmar Prison; Yaser Akbari in Shahrekord Prison; and Khosrow Abdi in Sabzevar Prison.

Further details, including the identification of seven of the prisoners, are still under review by HRANA.

As of the time this report was compiled, the executions of these prisoners have not been officially announced by prison authorities or responsible institutions.

The continuation of the widespread implementation of death sentences amid internet shutdowns and severe restrictions on the flow of information has intensified concerns over the lack of judicial transparency, prisoners’ denial of access to fair trials, and the heightened risk of violations of the right to life. Human rights organizations have repeatedly warned that carrying out these punishments in a securitized and opaque environment increases the likelihood of serious human rights violations.

According to HRA’s annual report on the human rights situation in Iran, at least 2,063 people were executed in Iran during the one-year period from January 1, 2025, to January 1, 2026. Based on this report, executions increased by 119% compared to 2024. In many of these cases, due to secrecy, prisoners were even denied the right to a final visit with their families.