The European Union has expressed grave concerns over the alarming rate of executions in Iran, describing the situation as “horrific.” According to the EU, at least 600 people have been executed in Iran since January of this year. This statement was made in a memo released on Friday by Peter Stano, the spokesperson for the European External Action Service.
Alarming Reports of Executions
The EU’s memo highlighted recent credible reports about the executions of a minor, Hamid Reza Azari, and a protester, Milad Zahra Vand, in Iran. These incidents occurred on consecutive days in November. Azari, only 17 years old, was accused of a criminal offense, while Zahra Vand’s execution marked the eighth activist executed since the start of protests in Iran.
EU’s Firm Opposition to Capital Punishment
The European Union reiterated its strong and principled opposition to the use of the death penalty under any circumstances. The memo described capital punishment as a cruel and inhumane penalty that does not deter crime. It also stated that such a punishment is an unacceptable denial of human dignity and creates an irreversible error in the application of justice.
Violation of International Agreements
The memo further pointed out that, according to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, both of which Iran is a signatory, the imposition of the death penalty on crimes committed by individuals under 18 is absolutely prohibited.
A Renewed Call for Action
In light of these developments, the European Union renewed its call for Iran to refrain from carrying out any future executions. It urged Iran to adopt a consistent policy towards abolishing the death penalty, aligning with the global trend. The EU’s stand reflects a broader concern for human rights and the rule of law, emphasizing the need for Iran to respect its international obligations and commitments
