Overview

• The amputations were carried out on August 1, 2025, in Urmia by forensic doctors enforcing the Islamic Penal Code.
• The three men were arrested in 2024 for stealing multiple kilograms of gold and jewelry and refused to return the valuables.
• Iran’s Penal Code prescribes hand amputation for repeat theft offenders as a means to induce remorse and prevent further crimes.
• Domestic and international human rights groups have denounced the punishments as inhumane violations of personal integrity.
• Iran’s judiciary has shown no sign of altering its use of Sharia-based corporal penalties despite mounting external pressure.