Iran publicly hangs January protesters in Isfahan's Alikhani Square, sparking outrage

What Happened

On Tuesday morning, the Islamic Republic publicly hanged two protesters, Amirhossein Safari and Abolfazl Sepahi, in Isfahan’s Alikhani Square, according to Iran’s judicial media (Mizan news agency) and online footage circulated by dissident circles. The men were convicted of 'moharebeh' (waging war against God) and 'corruption on earth' for their alleged roles in the January protests, during which Mizan claimed they attacked police officers with machetes and knives, and set officers on fire on January 8, the same day four security force members were reportedly killed by protesters. Human rights groups estimate over 30,000 killed during the December–January protests, while Tehran claims 3,117 deaths, including 427 security personnel, attributing the violence to foreign-backed rioters. The executions, which followed a closed-door group trial that UN Special Rapporteur Dr. Mai Sato said contravened fair trial standards, were carried out despite UN warnings of serious judicial misconduct. Iron scaffolding appeared overnight in the square, and the area was placed under heavy police surveillance; unverified videos suggest protests erupted in response.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The public executions underscore the regime’s use of capital punishment to quash dissent following widespread protests, as warned by UN experts who noted at least 24 executions linked to the January protests since the start of 2026. The charges of 'moharebeh' and 'corruption on earth,' often applied to protesters, highlight the legal system’s role in criminalizing political opposition. The events also draw renewed international scrutiny over Iran’s human rights record, potentially affecting diplomatic leverage in ongoing nuclear and regional proxy negotiations.

Watch For

Immediate focus should be on the case of Shervin Bagherian Jebeli, a teenager whose trial and possible death sentence may proceed; any further public protests in Isfahan or elsewhere and the security forces’ response; International reactions from the UN, rights organizations, and Western governments, including potential condemnations or sanctions; and whether the executions affect backchannel negotiations or broader geopolitical dynamics involving Iran.