Authorities in northwestern Iran have amputated the hands of three men convicted of theft, in a punishment that has drawn renewed criticism from human rights advocates.
According to local media reports on Friday, the amputation was carried out in the city of Urmia, following the men’s arrest in 2024 for allegedly stealing several kilograms of gold and jewelry.
The Iranian judiciary accused the men of refusing to cooperate in efforts to recover the stolen items.
Judicial sources said the punishment was implemented in accordance with Iran’s Islamic penal code, which permits the amputation of hands for repeat offenders as a form of deterrence and a means of instilling remorse.
The procedure was reportedly carried out by forensic medical personnel, as is customary in such cases.
While Iranian authorities defend the measure as a strict application of Sharia law, the practice has faced widespread condemnation both domestically and internationally.
Human rights groups have repeatedly described amputations and other severe corporal punishments, such as stoning, as inhumane and degrading.
The latest incident is expected to intensify scrutiny of Iran’s justice system and its use of punishments considered by many to violate international human rights standards.