Iran's execution of teenage wrestling champion Saleh Mohammadi has ignited global outrage and intensified scrutiny of the country's use of the death penalty, amid mounting allegations that his conviction relied on a confession extracted under torture.
The 19-year-old was hanged publicly on 19 March 2026 in Qom alongside two other men after being convicted of killing police officers during nationwide protests, according to Iranian judicial authorities. The case has rapidly become a flashpoint, drawing condemnation from human rights organisations, political figures and members of the international sporting community. Critics argue that the proceedings reflect deeper systemic concerns about due process and the treatment of detainees in politically sensitive cases.
