Iran-Israel war LIVE: 'Staggering' Iran toll drives up global executions: Amnesty
Amnesty International reports that worldwide executions in 2025 reached their highest level since 1981, with Iran accounting for the vast majority of the confirmed death penalty cases
Global executions surged to their highest level in over four decades in 2025, reaching a peak not seen since 1981. According to a report released on Monday by Amnesty International, the UK-based human rights organization confirmed the executions of at least 2,707 individuals across the globe. This sharp rise in capital punishment has raised significant concerns among international rights advocates regarding the use of the death penalty.[1][3]
The primary driver behind this global increase was a staggering spike in executions carried out by Iran. Amnesty International documented that 2,159 of the total confirmed executions worldwide occurred in Iran alone. This figure highlights a dramatic escalation in the Iranian government's application of the death penalty compared to previous years, contributing heavily to the 40-year global high.[1][2][3]
In a separate development related to regional instability, the United Arab Emirates reported a drone strike targeting a nuclear power plant. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabian authorities announced the interception of three drones that had originated from Iraqi airspace. These incidents occur against the backdrop of ongoing tensions and conflict involving Iran and Israel in the Middle East.[2]
