Iran executed two protesters on Monday over their alleged involvement in the killing of police officers during widespread anti-government protests in January, according to the judiciary.

The protesters were identified as Alireza Sepahi and Alireza Raisi. Their death sentences were carried out after being upheld by the Supreme Court, The Caspian Post reports, citing Anadolu Agency.

Iranian authorities accused the two men of involvement in incidents in Isfahan during the protests that resulted in the deaths of four police officers.

The judiciary said Sepahi set a police officer on fire while he was still alive, while Raisi took part in attacks on security forces and encouraged violence.

The two men were convicted of using weapons to create fear and insecurity, “corruption on earth,” inciting violence and other national security offenses.

The protests began on Dec. 28, 2025, amid a sharp decline in Iran’s currency and deteriorating economic conditions. They subsequently spread from Tehran to cities across the country and developed into broader anti-government demonstrations.

The unrest intensified on Jan. 8 and 9, with deadly clashes reported between protesters and security forces in several cities. Public buildings and police vehicles were set on fire. Iranian authorities imposed a nationwide internet shutdown and disruptions to mobile communications during the unrest.

Iranian authorities and rights groups reported hundreds of deaths and thousands of arrests during the protests, although their figures differed significantly.