Iran executes teenage wrestler Mohammadi, sparking global outcry

Iranian authorities have executed 19-year-old wrestler Saleh Mohammadi, a move that drew strong condemnation from human rights organizations and the international sporting community.

Mohammadi was executed on Thursday along with two other men for their alleged involvement in the Qom protests earlier this year.

Iranian officials said the three were responsible for killing two police officers during the unrest.

However, groups including Amnesty International and Iran Human Rights have rejected the government’s account, arguing that Mohammadi was denied a fair trial and forced to make confessions under pressure.

They also said his allegations of torture were ignored by the court.
Critics say the case highlights current concerns about the use of capital punishment in Iran, particularly in cases linked to protests and dissent, with allegations of weak evidence and a lack of due process.

Activist Nima Far described the execution as politically motivated, accusing authorities of using such actions to intimidate the public and silence dissenting voices, especially among athletes.

Mohammadi, who won bronze at the 2024 Saytiyev Cup in Russia, had insisted he was innocent, claiming he was at a relative’s house at the time of the incident.

His conviction, however, was based on initial confessions and testimony.

The execution reportedly went ahead despite US calls to stop it, sparking fresh international criticism.

The story also revived memories of the execution of wrestler Navid Afkari in 2020, reinforcing concerns about Iran’s treatment of protesters and athletes.