Italian lawmakers warn that the rising use of the death penalty is being used as a tool of repression and call on the UN to take immediate action
A majority of members of Italy’s Parliament and Senate have expressed strong condemnation of the Iranian regime’s growing use of political executions, calling for an immediate halt to death sentences, protection of political prisoners, and greater international pressure over human rights violations in Iran.
In a joint statement, the Italian lawmakers warned that the sharp increase in executions reflects the regime’s intensified reliance on capital punishment as a method of suppressing dissent and controlling society. They urged the United Nations and its member states to end what they described as unacceptable silence in response to escalating abuses.
"Il Parlamento accoglie la Resistenza iraniana: il CNRI può dare la spallata al regime" @ilriformista https://t.co/LCBbHjvJpV
"La Repubblica Islamica sta affrontando tensioni interne senza precedenti, una crescente rabbia popolare e un’instabilità politica sempre più profonda».… pic.twitter.com/M1yCqRXX5B— Giulio Terzi (@GiulioTerzi) July 21, 2026
Concerns Over Rising Political Executions in Iran
The Italian lawmakers highlighted reports of recent executions involving prisoners accused by Iranian authorities of links to the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) or involvement in nationwide protests against the regime.
They described these executions as part of a wider campaign of intimidation designed to discourage public opposition and prevent further demonstrations.
The statement also raised concerns over widespread arrests, restrictions on internet access, and other security measures imposed during periods of political unrest. According to the lawmakers, these actions represent a systematic effort by the Iranian authorities to silence dissent and restrict freedom of expression.
Italian Parliamentarians Demand Immediate International Response
The signatories called on the United Nations and governments around the world to take urgent steps to stop executions and ensure the safety of political prisoners in Iran.
They argued that the continued use of the death penalty against political opponents requires a stronger international response, warning that failure to act could encourage further repression.
The lawmakers also pointed to statements by Iran’s judiciary leadership advocating faster implementation of death sentences, saying such measures demonstrate the political use of executions as an instrument of control.
Support for the Iranian People’s Call for Freedom and Democracy
Beyond condemning human rights violations, the statement expressed solidarity with the Iranian people’s demands for democratic change and fundamental freedoms.
The Italian lawmakers noted that recent nationwide protests reflect a widespread desire for a democratic republic that rejects both religious authoritarianism and a return to hereditary rule.
They emphasized that Iran’s political future must be shaped by its own people through a democratic process rather than through foreign intervention.
Recognition of NCRI’s Transitional Government Proposal
The statement also welcomed the political roadmap presented by the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), which proposes the establishment of a transitional government responsible for organizing free elections within six months.
The lawmakers referred to Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan as a framework focused on democratic principles, including:
- Free and fair elections
- Separation of religion and state
- Gender equality
- Abolition of the death penalty
- Protection of minority rights
- A non-nuclear Iran committed to peaceful relations
According to the statement, this democratic platform has gained support from thousands of lawmakers worldwide, reflecting increasing international backing for a transition based on human rights and democratic values.
A Democratic Transition Led by the Iranian People
The Italian lawmakers reiterated that meaningful political change in Iran should come through the organized efforts of the Iranian people and without foreign military intervention.
They argued that supporting a democratic transition based on free elections, respect for human rights, and the rule of law would help create a more stable and peaceful future for both Iran and the wider Middle East.
Growing European Pressure Over Iran’s Human Rights Record
The statement adds to increasing parliamentary efforts across Europe addressing concerns over Iran’s human rights situation and the regime’s expanding use of executions against political opponents.
Amid continued reports of executions, arrests, and persecution of activists and political prisoners, the appeal from Italy’s lawmakers highlights growing international demands for human rights to become a central element of policies toward Iran.
The lawmakers stressed that supporting the Iranian people’s pursuit of freedom and democracy is essential for achieving lasting stability and peace.
