Iran execution rates surge

The figure represents a 68 percent increase from the previous year and includes at least 48 women who were hanged.

The report by Norway-based Iran Human Rights suggests that the actual number of executions may be significantly higher due to secretive practices.

Ethnic minorities and those linked to anti-government demonstrations have been disproportionately targeted.

International bodies have condemned the surge, describing it as an 'execution conveyor belt' designed to deter further unrest.