Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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April 1, 2026 Human rights
Since the US and Israeli strikes on Iran, pressure on civic space and freedom of expression in the Middle East has significantly intensified, exacerbating an already existing climate of fear amid numerous conflicts and crises, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk warned on Wednesday.
"We are witnessing a dramatic tightening of control over civic space under the guise of security across the region, with governments imposing severe restrictions on people exercising their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly," he said. "Waves of arrests and widespread crackdowns, often based on vague charges, are having a profound chilling effect on people already living in conditions of uncertainty, fear, and anxiety."
Mass arrests and executions in Iran
In Iran, an estimated 2,345 people have been arrested since the start of the conflict on charges related to national security, including terrorism, dissent, alleged espionage and "collaborating with the enemy."
Many of those arbitrarily detained during the January protests During the current conflict, those held in appalling conditions and subjected to accelerated trials without adequate safeguards increase the risk of the death penalty. Eight executions have already been reported, three of which are related to the protests. Dozens of other convicted individuals—including children—could face a similar fate.
"This is outrageous. As if the suffering caused by the war weren't enough, some Iranians are being arbitrarily detained, imprisoned, tried without due process, and in some cases even executed by their own authorities," Turk said. He called for the human rights of the Iranian people to be a priority, and all executions must stop immediately.
Meanwhile, Iran's nationwide internet shutdown has entered its fifth week and has become one of the largest in the world. There are also reports of widespread interrogations and intimidation of citizens by security forces in public places.
Growing repression in the region
The UN Human Rights Office is receiving alarming reports of arbitrary detentions and other forms of conflict-related government pressure across the region. "We fear that vague references to security are being used to further repress and violate fundamental human rights – often against minorities and already marginalized groups," the High Commissioner noted.
In the occupied Palestinian territory, Israeli authorities reported detaining 200 Palestinians between February 28 and March 6, including for social media posts and on suspicion of "incitement" and "glorifying the enemy." Security forces intensified raids in Palestinian communities in the West Bank, and restrictions on movement were tightened. In the town of Dura in Hebron province, a school principal was beaten on March 11, and his home was vandalized, allegedly because of a post supporting Iran.
In March, activist Mohammed al-Musawi died in custody in Bahrain, possibly after torture. Other arrests have been reported, including of foreign citizens, for filming or posting on social media, or expressing sympathy for the "enemy." Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty in espionage cases.
In Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, authorities reported the arrest of 313 and 109 people, respectively, on charges related to filming or disseminating information. In the UAE, 35 people have been sent to expedited trials, including those who distributed videos of the aftermath of the strikes. Foreign nationals are among those detained. In Kuwait, a new decree stipulates prison terms and hefty fines for disseminating information that "undermines the authority of the army" or trust in it. One conflict-related arrest has also been reported.
At least four critics, including Communist Party members, have reportedly been detained in Jordan; two of them remain in custody, on unclear grounds.
International law
"We remind all states of their international human rights obligations to respect and protect people's right to freedom of expression. Everyone has the right to express critical views, especially on matters of public concern, without fear of arbitrary arrest or punishment," Türk emphasized.
He noted that while restrictions may be imposed for reasons of national security or public order, they must be strictly justified, proportionate to the threats, and limited in time and scope. Comprehensive bans generally contravene international law.
"Detainees have the right to legal assistance, due process, and a fair trial. Pretrial detention should only be used as a measure of last resort," the High Commissioner said. "Those arbitrarily detained must be released immediately and unconditionally." The death penalty is contrary to the right to life and should not be applied for actions protected by international law."
Freedom of the press
The UN's top human rights official also pointed to attempts to restrict media freedom, including military censorship measures in Israel and threats by the US Federal Communications Commission to revoke broadcasters' licenses for covering the war.
"Full respect for the independence and freedom of the media is especially important in such circumstances, as it is the foundation of government accountability to society. These rights must be protected, not threatened," Türk concluded.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.