In a recent speech, Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Eje’i, Chief Justice of Iran, revealed a disturbing trend: the highest number of hand amputation sentences in the country has been carried out over the past three years. Speaking at Tehran Azad University’s Science and Research Unit, Eje’i emphasized that these sentences were implemented despite mounting domestic and international pressure—a stark indication of the regime’s attempts to suppress dissent and intimidate its populace amid growing fears of renewed popular protests.
Eje’i, who is internationally recognized as a prominent human rights violator, defended these actions, claiming they align with Islamic law. Addressing the students, he stated, “If theft is proven under the conditions set forth in Islam, the thief’s fingers should be cut off.” He further described such punishments as divine decrees, asserting that they continue to be enforced in Iran despite opposition from global and domestic actors.
Rising International Scrutiny
The Islamic Republic has historically downplayed the prevalence of amputation sentences, particularly in the face of international criticism. However, recent reports indicate a troubling surge in these punishments.
On October 13, 2024, Iran newspaper disclosed an indictment against eight individuals accused of theft, with amputation cited as their punishment. Their case has been referred to Tehran’s criminal court. Similarly, on November 9, 2024, Etemad newspaper reported that two defendants, Armin and Hatef, were sentenced to hand amputation for stealing from a National Bank branch. In another case, on October 29, 2024, the amputation of four fingers on the right hands of two brothers, Shahab and Mehrdad Timuri, was carried out in Urmia Prison on theft charges.
A Grim Record
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has documented the extent of this practice. In a statement by spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani on June 22, it was revealed that at least 237 individuals have been sentenced to amputation in Iran over the past 20 years, with 129 sentences executed.
Such punishments flagrantly violate international human rights standards. The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which Iran has ratified, explicitly prohibits inhumane and degrading punishments. Amputation clearly falls within this category, as it undermines the principle of human dignity—a cornerstone of human rights. Despite this, Iran remains one of the few nations that continues to enforce amputation sentences, refusing to join the international convention against torture.
Condemnation and Calls for Action
Global human rights organizations have consistently condemned Iran’s use of inhumane punishments, including amputation and flogging. These acts are not only legally and morally indefensible but also stand as evidence of the regime’s broader disregard for fundamental human rights.
Despite repeated international appeals, Iran persists in issuing and carrying out such sentences, cementing its reputation as a violator of human dignity and rights. The growing implementation of these barbaric practices signals a regime increasingly reliant on fear and repression to maintain control, even as it faces mounting internal and external pressures.
Addressing this grave issue requires continued global advocacy and pressure to hold the Iranian regime accountable for its actions. In the face of these ongoing atrocities, the international community must reaffirm its commitment to defending the universal principles of justice, dignity, and human rights.
Source » irannewsupdate