Iran: Khamenei pardons 2,108 prisoners, excluding those arrested during protests
Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, issued a decree pardoning or reducing the sentences of 2,108 prisoners convicted in various cases, in response to a proposal by the head of the judiciary, Gholam Hossein Mohseni Ejei. This decision coincides with preparations to commemorate the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, an annual occasion on which the Iranian leadership has traditionally issued similar decrees as a goodwill gesture toward specific categories of prisoners.
Exemption for participants in the protests
Although the pardon included a large number of convicts, the Iranian judiciary clarified unequivocally that the list did not include any individuals arrested or convicted for participating in the recent protests. The judiciary's Mizan Online website quoted Deputy Head of the Judiciary Ali Mozaffari as confirming that the pardon excluded those accused and convicted in what he termed "riots," a clear reference to the anti-government demonstrations.
The context of the revolution's anniversary and constitutional powers
This move is particularly significant as it coincides with the "Ten Days of Dawn" celebrations, the ten days during which Iran commemorates the return of Ayatollah Khomeini to Tehran and the fall of the Shah's regime. Under Article 110 of the Iranian Constitution, the Supreme Leader has the authority to pardon or commute sentences based on a recommendation from the head of the judiciary. While this practice is a political and religious tradition intended to bolster national unity, the exclusion of protesters this year sends a strong political message, both domestically and internationally, that the regime distinguishes between criminal offenses and security matters that threaten the stability of the state.
Background of the protests and their repercussions
The roots of the recent tensions can be traced back to late December, when widespread popular protests erupted, initially sparked by objections to the high cost of living and deteriorating economic conditions. These protests quickly transformed into anti-government political demonstrations that swept across various Iranian provinces. The unrest reached its peak in early January, resulting in significant loss of life and property damage.
In connection with the announced figures, reports in the original news article indicated that Tehran acknowledged casualties during the unrest, with sources stating that the number exceeded 3,000, including members of the security forces and bystanders who did not participate in the demonstrations. Authorities attributed this violence to what they described as "terrorist acts" and "external incitement." In contrast, international and human rights organizations point out that the number of casualties and the nature of the security forces' handling of the protesters remain a subject of widespread debate in international circles. This makes the recent amnesty decision a focus of attention for observers who see it as an attempt to appease public opinion while maintaining a tight security grip.
