Iran Prisoners Sew Lips Shut in Hunger Strike Over Executions 2026

In a dramatic protest against rising executions, prisoners at Iran's largest jail have sewn their lips shut as part of a mass hunger strike involving over 1,500 death row inmates. The action at Ghezel Hesar prison near Tehran began after six men convicted on drug charges were moved to solitary confinement ahead of possible execution, according to Iranian rights groups. Videos shared by exile groups show prisoners holding placards reading “No to Executions” and chanting for their voices to be heard.

Hunger Strike Escalates as Executions Surge

The protest is the latest act of defiance in a prisoner-led campaign against the death penalty that started in January 2024. According to the Oslo-based non-profit Iran Human Rights (IHRNGO), at least 424 executions have been carried out this year, with hundreds more on death row. Most executions are for drug-related offenses, though charges linked to anti-government protests have also risen sharply. On Tuesday, officials hanged two men convicted of “waging war on God” for the deaths of two police officers during demonstrations.

The Power of a Hunger Strike

Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, director of IHRNGO, stated that people sentenced to death for drug offences are among the most marginalized and voiceless prisoners on death row. “They have become the face of a broken justice system,” he said. The hunger strike is a nonviolent tactic used by prisoners worldwide to draw attention to unjust conditions and demand change. In this case, the sewing of lips adds a visceral layer of desperation, as prisoners risk their health to force a response from authorities.

Data from Iran Human Rights (IHRNGO) and Amnesty International.

What Is Driving the Surge in Executions?

Iran has dramatically increased the use of the death penalty in recent years, particularly for drug-related crimes and charges linked to the 2022–2023 anti-government protests. Critics argue that the regime uses executions as a tool of repression, targeting the most vulnerable populations. The hunger strike at Ghezel Hesar is a direct response to this policy, with prisoners risking their lives to demand an end to what they call “judicial murder.”

Key Takeaways from the Hunger Strike

• Over 1,500 death row prisoners are participating in the hunger strike at Iran’s largest jail.
• Prisoners have sewn their lips shut to amplify their protest and demand attention.
• At least 424 executions have been carried out in Iran in 2024, mostly for drug offenses.
• International human rights groups are calling for immediate intervention.
• The prison guards have reportedly denied medical help to deteriorating strikers.

How Can the International Community Respond?

Human rights organizations urge global leaders to condemn the executions and support prisoner-led protests. Sanctions, diplomatic pressure, and public awareness campaigns can help spotlight the crisis. The United Nations has previously called on Iran to halt executions, but the regime has continued its crackdown. Individuals can amplify the voices of these prisoners by sharing their stories and supporting groups like IHRNGO and Amnesty International.

FAQ

The hunger strike at Ghezel Hasar prison is a stark reminder of the human cost of Iran's execution policies. As prisoners continue to sew their lips shut and risk their lives, the world must listen and act. Stand with the prisoners by sharing this story and demanding justice.