Iran’s judiciary has carried out the execution of Sasan Azadvar Jounqani, a 21-year-old protester arrested during the January 2026 nationwide demonstrations. He was executed in the early hours of Thursday, April 30, at Dastgerd Prison in Isfahan.
Azadvar, a karate athlete, had been sentenced to death on the charge of “waging war against God” (moharebeh), a broadly defined offense frequently used in cases related to political dissent. Judicial authorities linked the charge to allegations such as clashes with security forces, damage to public property, and participation in protests. He had also received additional prison sentences on charges including “propaganda against the state” and “inciting disorder.”
His death sentence had previously been upheld by the Supreme Court. In the days leading up to his execution, his family was summoned for a final visit. Sources indicate that his burial took place under heavy security restrictions, with only a limited number of relatives permitted to attend.
There is no clear information regarding the fairness of his trial or whether he had adequate access to an independent lawyer. Reports suggest he was held in solitary confinement during parts of his detention.
The execution comes amid ongoing international calls to halt the use of the death penalty in protest-related cases. However, Iran’s judiciary chief stated on the same day that the authorities would not heed such appeals, raising further concerns about the continued use of capital punishment against protesters.
@iranhrdc
#DigitalBlackoutIran
#iran_strikes
#iran_human_rights
#iranmassacre
#sasan_azadvar
Azadvar, a karate athlete, had been sentenced to death on the charge of “waging war against God” (moharebeh), a broadly defined offense frequently used in cases related to political dissent. Judicial authorities linked the charge to allegations such as clashes with security forces, damage to public property, and participation in protests. He had also received additional prison sentences on charges including “propaganda against the state” and “inciting disorder.”
His death sentence had previously been upheld by the Supreme Court. In the days leading up to his execution, his family was summoned for a final visit. Sources indicate that his burial took place under heavy security restrictions, with only a limited number of relatives permitted to attend.
There is no clear information regarding the fairness of his trial or whether he had adequate access to an independent lawyer. Reports suggest he was held in solitary confinement during parts of his detention.
The execution comes amid ongoing international calls to halt the use of the death penalty in protest-related cases. However, Iran’s judiciary chief stated on the same day that the authorities would not heed such appeals, raising further concerns about the continued use of capital punishment against protesters.
@iranhrdc
#DigitalBlackoutIran
#iran_strikes
#iran_human_rights
#iranmassacre
#sasan_azadvar