Iran’s Escalating Crisis: From Show Trials to a Looming Revolution
More citizens are facing execution in Iran now than in any other nation worldwide. This isn’t a gradual increase; it’s a surge. In September 2025 alone, over 200 executions were recorded – a staggering 2.5 times higher than the same month last year and seven times the figure from 2023. This dramatic escalation, coupled with the regime’s selective application of justice – as starkly illustrated by the cases of Zahra Tabari and the “Devil of Tehran” – signals not just a brutal crackdown, but a system teetering on the brink of collapse.
The Two Faces of Iranian Justice
The case of 67-year-old political dissident Zahra Tabari epitomizes the arbitrary nature of Iran’s judicial system. Sentenced to death after a mere 10-minute “trial” without access to legal representation, Tabari’s fate highlights the regime’s ruthless suppression of dissent. She is accused of ties to the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) and joins 16 other political prisoners facing the same grim prospect. This stands in stark contrast to the recent commutation of the death sentence for Khalil, dubbed the “Devil of Tehran,” a serial rapist whose initial conviction was reduced to 100 lashes and deportation. This disparity isn’t an anomaly; it’s a deliberate demonstration of power and a chilling indicator of the regime’s priorities.
A Surge in Executions and the Roots of Repression
The escalating number of executions – reaching at least 1,300 in the first nine months of 2025, compared to 1,001 for all of 2024 – is directly linked to the regime’s attempts to quell widespread discontent. The increase has been particularly pronounced following perceived setbacks, such as Israel’s recent actions. These executions aren’t simply about punishing crimes; they are intended to instill fear and deter further protests. The regime views any challenge to its authority, particularly from groups like the PMOI/MEK, as an existential threat.
The Rising Tide of Resistance: Youth Leading the Charge
Despite the immense risks, Iranians are increasingly taking to the streets to protest the regime’s brutality. This resistance is fueled by economic hardship, political repression, and a growing desire for freedom. The recent “Free Iran 2025, Youth Congress,” held simultaneously in multiple cities globally, underscores the strength and determination of the opposition. Participants overwhelmingly endorsed the National Council of Resistance of Iran’s (NCRI) Ten-Point Plan for a democratic Iran, with a strong emphasis on gender equality.
Maryam Rajavi’s Vision for a New Iran
NCRI President-elect Maryam Rajavi articulated a powerful message of hope and defiance, stating that Iranian society is “rising up against the regime’s policy of execution.” She highlighted the recent strike by 1,500 death row prisoners as a testament to the people’s unwavering resolve. Rajavi’s vision centers on a democratic Iran where women and youth play a central role, and where the rule of law prevails. This vision directly challenges the current theocratic system and offers a compelling alternative.
The Legal Framework for a Future Iran
Legal experts, like Mahan Taraj of the Iranian Lawyers’ Association, are actively working to lay the groundwork for a future legal system based on justice and the rule of law. Taraj emphasized the need for a new constitution that prioritizes justice as a foundation for freedom, rather than a tool for oppression. The proposed framework envisions a republic, free from both monarchical and religious control, with an independent judiciary and the abolition of the death penalty. This represents a fundamental shift from the current system, where the judiciary is subservient to the ruling clergy.
The Potential for Regime Change and Regional Implications
The confluence of factors – escalating executions, widespread protests, a unified opposition movement, and a clear vision for a democratic future – suggests that the Iranian regime is facing an unprecedented crisis. While predicting the timing of regime change is impossible, the current trajectory points towards increasing instability and a growing likelihood of significant upheaval. A transition to democracy in Iran would have profound implications for the region, potentially reducing tensions and fostering greater stability. However, the transition itself is likely to be fraught with challenges, including internal power struggles and external interference. The international community must prepare for a range of scenarios and be ready to support a peaceful and democratic transition.
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