TEHRAN — Iran executed an Afghan national on Thursday for drug-related offenses, the Hengaw Human Rights Organization reported. The individual, identified as Jassim Jahantigh, was put to death in Jirfat Prison, bringing the number of Afghan nationals executed in Iran this year to 72, according to the watchdog.
Hengaw also reported that two other prisoners were executed alongside Mr. Jahantigh. The individuals were identified as Asad Amini, 27, from Sardasht, and Saman Fakhri, 33, from Bana.
Iran has executed more Afghan nationals than any other country this year, Hengaw said, sparking condemnation from human rights organizations. Critics argue that Iran’s use of the death penalty disproportionately targets vulnerable populations, including migrants, and violates fundamental human rights.
Advocacy groups have also highlighted Iran’s history of executing individuals who committed crimes as minors, a practice that breaches international conventions on juvenile justice. Rights organizations have repeatedly called on Tehran to halt such executions and implement fair trial standards.
The recent execution is part of what human rights groups describe as an alarming trend in the treatment of Afghan nationals in Iran.
Following the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in August 2021, many Afghans fled to Iran in search of safety and economic opportunities. However, migrants often face legal and social discrimination, limited access to due process, and harsh penalties under Iran’s legal system.
