Iran authorities used excessive and lethal force during protests

According to Human Rights Watch report Iranian authorities violated international human rights law with excessive and lethal force against protestors in Kurdistan throughout September, October and November

Iranian security forces have used excessive and lethal force against anti-government protesters. This includes live ammunition, tear gas and pellets. HRW also claims that Iran is committing human rights abuses against detainees, such as arbitrary arrests, denial of medical care, torture, beatings, sexual harassment and assault. HRW researcher Tara Sepehri says, “Iranian authorities have dramatically escalated abuses against protesters in custody.”

Reports also added execution of protestors is “fueling the social movement in Iran.” Earlier this month, the first official execution of 23-year-old protester Mohsen Shekari came as the family was still waiting on an appeal. Shekari was charged with Moharebeh, or war against God, and hanged. Human rights groups say he was denied access to his lawyer during the interrogation and legal proceedings. The entire process from arrest to sentencing took just 18 days.