Javid Rahman, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Iran, has described the 1988 massacre and the executions of 1981 and 1982 as crimes against humanity in his latest report. This acknowledgment nullifies the deceitful efforts of the Iranian regime, which for decades has tried to conceal the blood-stained hands of those responsible for these horrific crimes. Rahman's report sheds light on the murders, arbitrary executions, enforced disappearances, and torture of thousands of political prisoners and religious minorities.

The release of Rahman’s report coincides with the 36th anniversary of the massacre of political prisoners, which began in August 1988 and continued through September. During this slaughter, tens of thousands of political prisoners across Iran were executed by hanging, following a fatwa issued by Khomeini. The UN Special Rapporteur’s report also highlights the role of Assadollah Lajevardi, a notorious executioner, in the brutalities of the early 1980s, exposing the regime's atrocities during this dark decade.

In his report, Javid Rahman repeatedly refers to the admissions of Hossein Ali Montazeri, then, Khomeini’s deputy, regarding the massacre. He cites Khomeini's fatwa, which Montazeri documented in his memoirs.

The UN Special Rapporteur described the repression and killings carried out by the Iranian regime during the 1980s as "the most egregious and severe human rights violations in living memory." He emphasized that those responsible for these crimes remain in power in Iran today.

A section of the report addresses the sexual abuses inflicted upon detainees by government agents. It details gender-based crimes committed during the 1980s massacre, including sexual violence against women and girls and reports of rape before execution.

Rahman’s report underscores that the international community has either been unwilling or unable to hold the Iranian regime accountable. In such circumstances, perpetrators continue to enjoy government privileges and immunity from international justice.

Beyond Rahman’s comprehensive report, the Iranian people have realized that the regime's crimes have not diminished but persist to this day. While the regime once sought to portray its opposition as a rebellious minority lacking popular support, its true nature has become increasingly apparent. Today, its malign character is recognized globally.

The Islamic regime in Iran has a vast record of crimes against humanity. Believing that the downfall of this regime can be achieved through the replacement of a president or so-called reforms is naive. It has become evident to all individuals and political groups without ulterior motives that the only way to end the 45 years of suffering and crimes is the complete overthrow of the current regime in Iran.

We call on everyone to unite and collaborate in the effort to overthrow the ruling regime and establish a republican system based on freedom, democracy, federalism, and the separation of religion and state.

Broad Solidarity for Freedom and Equality in Iran
Congress of Federal Nationalities for Iran

July 26, 2024