Mai Sato, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Iran, elaborated on her latest report regarding the human rights situation in Iran on Wednesday, October 28 (Aban 6). This report, published in September, examines the human rights situation in Iran from February to August 2026 and includes details on executions, unfair trials, pressure on families, internet shutdowns, economic damages, and environmental destruction.
Suffering of Iranian Households
Sato stated in her report to the UN General Assembly: "Security against foreign attacks and protection of people from human rights violations within the country are not mutually exclusive options." She continued that the people of Iran currently lack both, and thousands of families have been grieving and harmed due to military attacks and the use of lethal force by government forces. According to Sato's report, at least 34 people have been executed in connection with the protests of December 2025 and January 2026.Read more: Jokar emphasized the necessity of attention to the patriotism of elites abroad
Repression and Communication Shutdowns
The report points to the severe deterioration of the judicial process, stating that court sessions have been held online and lasted only a few minutes. Additionally, forced confessions have been broadcast on television within days of arrests. According to Human Rights Watch, from March 18 to the end of August 2026, Iranian authorities executed at least 59 men on political and security charges, 29 of whom had been detained in connection with recent protests.Sato also referred to the harsh living conditions of Iranian households before the onset of attacks, stating that war, sanctions, and internet shutdowns have worsened the economic situation. The internet shutdown has particularly harmed women working in the informal economy. The report also highlights the situation of prisoners who were trapped in their cells during airstrikes and emphasizes that communication shutdowns have increased the danger for those already in detention.
Sato called on the Islamic Republic to halt executions and release individuals detained for exercising their fundamental rights. She also stressed that under current conditions, independent documentation of events and not ignoring human rights is vital.
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