Paris, 18 September 2007 - The International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and the Iranian League for the Defence of Human Rights (LDDHI) strongly condemn the execution of 11 Iranian citizens, hanged on 12 September 2007. The victims were charged with terrorist-related offences.

Among the executed were three members of the Arabic minority in Iran, a group originating from Khuzistan, in southwestern Iran. The persons executed on 12 September were: Mr. Abdol-Reza Navaseri (34 years old), Mr. Mohammad-Ali Savari (38 years old) and his brother, Mr. Jafar Savari (23 years). Since the beginning of 2007, 15 members of the Arab minority have been executed. According to information received, four other members of the Arab minority are currently awaiting execution: Messrs Hamzeh Savari (20 years old), Zamel Bavi, Nazem Barihi et Abdolmam Zaeri.

These executions continue the widely-condemned trend of capital punishment favoured by the present Iranian leadership. FIDH and LDDHI have closely monitored the application of the death penalty in Iran this year and have repeatedly condemned its application, in violation of international human rights standards, including the right to a fair trial and the obligation to restrict as a minimum the death penalty to the ?most serious? crimes only. FIDH recalls the Urgent Appeal launched with its member oganisations this Summer calling, inter alia, for an end to politically motivated executions.

FIDH and LDDHI reaffirm their opposition to the death penalty in all circumstances and once again urge the Iranian authorities to conform with their international obligations in respect of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international human rights instruments.

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