Iranian Court Sentences 14 Protesters to Death Amidst Ongoing Unrest

A court in Iran has issued death sentences to 14 protesters involved in recent unrest, with proceedings conducted online, according to sources familiar with the matter. The sentences were handed down by Judge Abolghasem Salavati, head of Branch 15 of Iran’s Revolutionary Court.

Virtual Trials and Concerns Over Due Process

The trials were reportedly held virtually, with Judge Salavati hearing cases involving groups of 14 defendants simultaneously. This raises concerns about due process and the fairness of the proceedings, particularly given the sensitive nature of the charges and the political climate in Iran.

Recent Death Sentences

Among those sentenced to death is Abolfazl Karimi, 35, who was arrested after attempting to assist injured protesters in Tehran on January 6. Karimi, a motorbike courier and father, was reportedly shot during his arrest. Mohammadamin Biglari, 19, was also sentenced to death by Judge Salavati on Sunday after being detained during the protests.

UK Sanctions and International Response

The United Kingdom has responded to the ongoing crackdown on protesters by imposing sanctions on several Iranian officials. On February 2, 2026, the UK government sanctioned 10 individuals, including Ahmad Darvish Goftar and Mehdi Rasakhi, judges in the Revolutionary Court of Rasht, and the Law Enforcement Forces (FARAJA) [Source: mojahedin.org]. These sanctions target those responsible for human rights violations during the suppression of protests.

Widespread Protests and Reported Casualties

The nationwide uprising against the Iranian government continues despite internet blackouts and a brutal crackdown on civilians. Activists estimate that at least 6,000 people have been killed in the demonstrations against the government and high living costs, with thousands more deaths currently under investigation [Source: iranintl.com].

Allegations of Bargaining Chips and Nuclear Talks

There have been reports suggesting that the detained British couple, along with other foreign nationals, may be used as bargaining chips in negotiations between Iran and Western countries. These reports emerged as the US and Iran indicated progress in resolving disputes over Iran’s nuclear program [Source: iranintl.com]. Meetings between the two countries took place after the US issued military threats related to Iran’s crackdown on anti-government protests.

Previous Releases and Concerns Over Evin Prison

French and German citizens have recently been released from Iranian jails following diplomatic pressure from their respective governments. However, concerns remain regarding the conditions in Iranian prisons, particularly Evin Prison, which has been criticized for alleged torture and inhumane treatment of inmates, including journalists and political prisoners [Source: iranintl.com].

UK Parliamentary Debate

The situation in Iran was debated in the UK Parliament on January 19, 2026, with members expressing concern over the Iranian regime’s brutal response to protests [Source: hansard.parliament.uk].