Fact Check: Iran boasts the second-highest rate of executions in the world.

Fact Check: "Iran boasts the second-highest rate of executions in the world."

What We Know

Iran has consistently been reported as one of the leading countries in terms of execution rates. According to the Iran Human Rights organization, Iran executed at least 975 people in 2024, marking the highest figure since the NGO began recording executions in 2008. This places Iran second only to China in absolute numbers of executions. Furthermore, in the first three months of 2025, Iran executed at least 230 individuals, which was more than double the number executed during the same period in 2024, where only 110 executions were reported (Iran Human Rights).

Additionally, a report from the International Organization for Peace and Human Rights corroborates this claim, stating that Iran ranks second globally in total executions and first in executions per capita. This data indicates a troubling trend in the use of capital punishment in Iran, particularly following the nationwide protests that erupted in 2022.

Analysis

The claim that Iran has the second-highest rate of executions in the world is supported by multiple credible sources. The statistics provided by the Iran Human Rights organization and the International Organization for Peace and Human Rights are consistent and reflect a significant increase in executions over recent years. The reports detail not only the total number of executions but also the demographic breakdown, including a notable rise in the execution of women and political prisoners.

However, it is essential to consider the reliability of these sources. The Iran Human Rights organization is a Norway-based NGO that focuses on human rights issues in Iran and has been active in documenting executions since 2008. While it is generally regarded as a credible source, it is important to note that it operates outside of Iran and may face challenges in obtaining comprehensive data due to the opaque nature of the Iranian judicial system.

Moreover, the Amnesty International report indicates that global executions reached their highest figure since 2015, further contextualizing Iran's position within a broader trend of increasing executions worldwide. This suggests that while Iran's execution rate is alarming, it is part of a larger global issue regarding the use of the death penalty.

Conclusion

The claim that "Iran boasts the second-highest rate of executions in the world" is True. The evidence from multiple reputable sources confirms that Iran has executed a significant number of individuals, placing it second only to China in total executions. The data reflects a concerning trend in the use of capital punishment, particularly in the context of political repression and social unrest.