Iran executed Mehdi Farid for allegedly spying for Israel, marking a rise in executions since the war began on February 28. Farid, a former employee of Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation, was accused of providing sensitive information to Mossad. Human rights groups have raised concerns about forced confessions and lack of fair trials. The execution rate has surged, with at least 1,639 executions reported in 2025, the highest since 1989, amid increased crackdowns following protests.