Iran Executes Man Accused of Running Over Seven Police During Protests

Iran has executed Shahram Sadqi, who was convicted of running over seven police officers during protests in Karaj. The Iranian judiciary accused Sadqi of acting in support of Israel, the United States, and hostile groups. According to official accounts, the incident took place in Golzar Square amid demonstrations, where Sadqi allegedly drove at high speed into security forces, injuring seven officers, one of whom remained in a coma for about three months. After the event, Sadqi reportedly fled, set his car on fire, and hid under a false identity before being arrested at a drug rehabilitation camp. Initially, he denied involvement, claiming his car was stolen, but investigators said evidence contradicted his claims and he later admitted to the act. The Revolutionary Court in Karaj sentenced him to death and confiscation of his property, a ruling upheld by the Supreme Court. This execution is part of a rising wave of death sentences in Iran, particularly targeting those accused of security offenses and protest-related charges. On August 5, UN Human Rights Commissioner Volker Turk warned of a sharp increase in executions, reporting at least 56 death sentences since March 19, including 27 linked to protests. On August 12, the European Union and 26 other countries condemned Iran's executions of protesters and urged Tehran to halt the use of the death penalty. Iran Human Rights also reported on August 12 that Iranian authorities are conducting mass trials against protesters, with dozens already sentenced to death in proceedings deemed unfair by the organization.