UN Official Demands Iran Halt Executions Tied to January Demonstrations

Friday, February 27, 2026 at 4:46 AM

The United Nations' top human rights official is calling for Iran to immediately stop death penalty executions following recent protest-related sentences. At least eight demonstrators, including two minors, have received death sentences with dozens more potentially facing the same fate.

GENEVA – The United Nations’ leading human rights official issued an urgent plea Friday for Iran to immediately halt all death penalty executions, expressing alarm that numerous additional protesters could face capital punishment following this week’s first execution sentence connected to January’s widespread demonstrations.

Speaking before the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva, Volker Turk expressed his shock at recent developments in Iran. “I am horrified by reports that at least eight people, including two children, have been sentenced to death in connection with the protests,” Turk stated, noting that approximately 30 additional individuals appear to face similar potential sentences.

The warning comes as Iran continues its crackdown on demonstrators who participated in mass protests throughout the country in January.

More from TV Delmarva Channel 33 News