Open Letter to Amnesty International and International Red Cross
We write to you with deep alarm and urgency regarding the tragic and unlawful killing of prisoners at Dizel Abad Prison in Kermanshah, Iran, on June 16, 2025.
Following an Israeli airstrike near the prison, explosions triggered unrest inside the facility. In response, Iranian anti-riot forces stormed the prison, resulting in the death of at least 10 prisoners and injuries to over 30 more, using bullets, pellets, and tear gas. This violent crackdown constitutes a direct violation of Iran’s constitutional prohibitions against torture and arbitrary punishment, and grossly breaches international human rights obligations regarding the treatment of detainees.
This atrocity takes place in a broader context of escalating repression and war-related abuses, particularly against political prisoners. The Iranian government has a well-documented history of targeting prisoners during crises, including the 1988 mass executions and recent secret transfers such as that reported in Urmia on June 15, 2025.
We affirm that the right to life and humane treatment belongs to all prisoners, without exception. No conflict, internal unrest, or security rationale can justify state-sanctioned executions or abuse in detention.
We urge Amnesty International, International Red Cross and all international human rights bodies to:
- Publicly condemn the killings at Dizel Abad Prison and demand a UN-led independent investigation.
- Pressure the Iranian government to protect all prisoners from harm, and where necessary, transfer them to safety or consider temporary release.
- Mobilize international action to ensure the protection of detainees and prevent further atrocities.
This report is further corroborated by coverage from Tavaana, who independently confirmed the killings in Dizel Abad on June 16, 2025.
Time is of the essence. Silence and delay can cost more lives.
With urgency and solidarity,
Iranian Association Against Executions (IFMA)
Sweden
