In the midst of negotiations with the US, Iran's regime has stepped up its executions of dissidents, with at least 45 people hanged on political charges this year.
Most of these death sentences have been carried out in the past three months, as authorities seek to send a message to a restless population: the regime is firmly in control, and dissent won't be tolerated.
The executions are part of a broader crackdown on dissent, with thousands of alleged traitors and spies arrested in recent months, according to Iranian state media.
Human rights groups say the regime is using espionage and other loosely defined capital offenses to suppress political activity, and that many of those executed were arrested following protests in January.
One of those executed was Nasser Bakerzadeh, a 26-year-old who was accused of being an Israeli spy and denied any credible evidence.
Bakerzadeh's case is just one of many that highlights the regime's use of fear to maintain control, said Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, director of Iran Human Rights.
As the regime faces a challenge from its deeply disaffected population, it is resorting to increasingly harsh measures to maintain its grip on power.
