The numbers
Saleh Mohammadi was executed by public hanging on March 19, 2026, at the age of 19, following accusations of killing two police officers during protests. His execution is part of a broader crackdown on anti-regime dissent, with three individuals executed on the same day. The Iranian regime has faced significant international criticism for its treatment of both athletes and protesters, with reports indicating that over 7,000 demonstrators were killed during protests in January 2026.
Mohammadi was arrested during these protests in January and was sentenced to death on February 4, 2026. His trial has been described as lacking due process, involving forced confessions that raise serious concerns about the fairness of the judicial process in Iran. The Iranian judiciary claimed that Mohammadi and others acted on behalf of foreign powers, specifically Israel and the United States, a narrative often used by the regime to justify harsh crackdowns.
On March 11, 2026, just days before his execution, Mohammadi celebrated his 19th birthday in prison. His case has drawn attention not only for its tragic outcome but also because Mohammadi was a promising athlete, having won a bronze medal at the Saytiyev International Cup in September 2024. This juxtaposition of his athletic achievements and his brutal execution underscores the Iranian regime’s pattern of targeting athletes to suppress dissent.
Human rights organizations have condemned the execution, labeling it as state-sanctioned murder. The Center for Human Rights in Iran stated, “Executing these young protesters in public, after sham trials built on torture and forced confessions, is state-sanctioned murder designed to terrorize the population and send a clear message: any act of dissent will be met with death.” This sentiment reflects a growing concern over the Iranian government’s tactics to instill fear among its citizens.
Nima Far, a prominent human rights advocate, described Mohammadi’s execution as a “blatant political murder,” emphasizing that it is part of the Islamic Republic’s strategy to crush dissent and terrorize society. The international community has been urged to take a stand against such actions, with calls for Iran to be banned from international competitions until it ceases executions of protesters and athletes.
Masih Alinejad, a well-known Iranian activist, has also called for global solidarity, urging organizations like Global Athlete to support Iranian athletes who are facing severe repercussions for their voices. The plight of athletes like Mohammadi highlights the intersection of sports and politics in Iran, where expressing dissent can lead to fatal consequences.
As the world reacts to Mohammadi’s execution, observers are left to ponder the future of dissent in Iran. The regime’s ongoing crackdown raises questions about the safety of those who dare to speak out against the government. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the government’s actions against other protesters and athletes, but the situation remains dire.
The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, with hopes that increased awareness and pressure will lead to changes in Iran’s treatment of its citizens, particularly those who engage in peaceful protests or express dissenting opinions.