Iran Accused of 'Quietly Executing' Jailed Protesters, Masking Deaths

• Activists and rights groups claim Iranian authorities are secretly executing detained protesters and falsely reporting their deaths as protest casualties.
• The allegations emerge amidst a brutal nationwide crackdown following anti-government demonstrations over economic hardship and the ruling system.
• One case highlights Erfan Soltani, a 26-year-old shopkeeper, allegedly sentenced to death without a fair trial, with activists claiming his only crime was 'shouting for freedom'.
• Families of deceased detainees reportedly face extortion, forced to pay $5,000-$7,000 to retrieve bodies, according to a UN expert.
• Human rights advocates warn these actions violate international law and urge global pressure to prevent intensified political repression.

Why It Matters: Iran is accused of secretly executing jailed protesters and covering up deaths amid a brutal crackdown.