The number of Afghan citizens executed in Iran has reportedly increased sharply in recent years, with human rights groups raising concerns over the growing number of Afghan nationals facing the death penalty.
According to human rights organizations, Iran has executed at least 23 Afghan nationals since the beginning of 2026. The figures highlight continuing concerns over the treatment of Afghan citizens involved in criminal cases in Iran.
Afghan nationals make up a significant migrant population in Iran, where many have lived or worked for years. Human rights groups have repeatedly called for greater transparency in death penalty cases and urged authorities to ensure that defendants receive fair trials and access to legal representation.
The latest figures come amid broader international concerns about the high number of executions carried out in Iran. Rights organizations have frequently criticized the use of capital punishment and called for stronger safeguards for defendants, particularly foreign nationals who may face additional difficulties accessing legal assistance and understanding judicial proceedings.
The reported increase in executions of Afghans has also raised concerns among human rights advocates about whether Afghan nationals are receiving adequate legal protections throughout the judicial process.
No further details were provided regarding the identities of the 23 Afghan nationals, the charges against them or the locations where the executions took place.
Rights groups are continuing to monitor cases involving Afghan citizens sentenced to death in Iran and have called for greater disclosure of judicial proceedings and the circumstances surrounding executions.
The issue remains particularly sensitive given the large Afghan population in Iran and the continued movement of Afghan migrants across the two countries’ shared border.