Iran Protests: Protesters in Iran face death penalty; learn about the ‘Enemy of God’ law
Iran Declares Protesters “Enemies of God,” Death Penalty Threat Looms Amid Widening Demonstrations: Amid ongoing anti-government protests in Iran, Attorney General Mohammad Movahedi Azad has warned that anyone participating in demonstrations will be considered an “enemy of God,” a charge that carries the death penalty under Iranian law. A statement on state television also warned that those who assist protesters or “help the rioters” would face the same charge.
Under Article 186 of Iranian law, members or supporters of groups engaging in armed resistance against the Islamic Republic can be labeled as mohareb (enemies of Allah), even if they do not personally engage in violence. Article 190 of the law prescribes harsh punishments for mohareb, including execution, amputation of the right hand and left foot, or permanent exile.
The Attorney General’s office emphasized that prosecutors must act “carefully and without delay” to issue indictments and prepare trials against those accused of betraying the nation or creating insecurity. The statement underlined that actions must proceed “without leniency, mercy, or concessions,” despite repeated warnings from the United States regarding human rights concerns.
Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has responded to the escalating situation by calling for peaceful protests, urging demonstrators to occupy public spaces while carrying Iran’s old lion-and-sun flag and other national symbols from the Shah’s era.
The protests initially erupted after the Iranian rial hit a record low against the US dollar in late December 2025, fueling public dissatisfaction with the Islamic Republic. Since then, demonstrations have expanded into broader anti-government protests, reflecting widespread anger over economic instability and political repression.
Authorities have so far not indicated how many people have been detained under the “enemy of God” charge, and the situation remains tense as international observers continue to monitor developments in the country.
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