TEHRAN — Iran has executed three individuals, including an 18-year-old Afghan national, according to a report by Halvash, an Iranian human rights organization.
The Afghan national, identified as Ismail Barakzai, was a resident of Farah province in western Afghanistan. Barakzai was convicted of murder for a knife attack during a physical altercation with an Iranian citizen last year, a crime he allegedly committed at the age of 17.
Despite international norms prohibiting the execution of minors, Iranian authorities delayed carrying out the sentence until Barakzai turned 18, Halvash reported.
The human rights group also noted that the other two executed individuals included one Kurdish man, though their identities and specific charges were not disclosed.
Human rights organizations have repeatedly condemned Iran’s use of capital punishment, particularly in cases involving individuals who committed crimes while underage. Advocates have urged Tehran to halt the execution of juvenile offenders, citing violations of international law and fundamental human rights.
The recent execution adds to growing concerns over what human rights groups describe as an increase in the execution of Afghan nationals in Iran. This uptick follows the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in August 2021, with many Afghans fleeing to Iran in search of safety and work.
