Iranian soldier sentenced to death for refusing to fire on protesters during nationwide unrest

An Iranian soldier, Javid Khales, has been sentenced to death for refusing to fire on protesters during nationwide unrest in late 2025 and early 2026. The Iran Human Rights Society (IHRS) reports that Khales was arrested after refusing the order and is currently imprisoned in Isfahan. The sentencing raises concerns about unfair trials and state-sanctioned killings, especially as judiciary officials have advocated for swift resolutions in cases involving dissidents. Human rights groups report that many detainees are being held without access to legal representation or fair trials. The IHRS believes Khales' death sentence is part of a broader government effort to suppress dissent and enforce obedience. The government has also restricted internet access to hinder protest organization and conceal the situation from the public.

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