Afghan citizen executed in Iran amid rising human rights concerns

Iranian media reported that the Islamic Republic executed an Afghan individual in Bandar Abbas on drug-related charges. According to reports, Gulab Shah Noori was secretly executed early Tuesday morning without informing his family.

Gulab Shah, 43, was originally from Farah province. After his arrest and sentencing by the Iranian Revolutionary Court in Bandar Abbas, he had been imprisoned for five years.

Just four days earlier, on Sunday, July 21, the Iranian human rights organization reported the execution of an Afghan citizen on drug-related charges in Ghezal Hasar prison in Karaj.

Information about the legal proceedings and prison conditions for these Afghan individuals has not yet been released. It is unclear whether they had access to a fair trial and legal representation.

Some media reports indicate that the total number of executions in Iran for 2023 has reached 853, the highest recorded number since 2015. This figure represents a 48% increase from 2022, following the “Women, Life, Freedom” protests.

Afghan refugees in Iran face severe challenges, including arbitrary detention and harsh living conditions. Many are subjected to frequent harassment and discrimination by local authorities, exacerbating their already difficult situation.

Meanwhile, In Pakistan, Afghan refugees often experience significant human rights violations, including forced evictions and lack of access to basic services. Reports indicate that they are frequently disrespected and mistreated, contributing to their precarious living conditions.

Both in Iran and Pakistan, Afghan refugees are struggling with the lack of legal protection and insufficient support from international agencies. Their plight underscores the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to ensure their safety, dignity, and human rights.

Khaama Press