Iran has executed at least 21 people since the start of the war with the United States and Israel about two months ago, and arrested over 4,000 on charges related to national security. This was stated by UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk, who added that at least nine were executed in connection with protests against the regime in January, 10 for alleged membership in opposition groups, and two on espionage charges. "I am appalled that in addition to the already severe impacts of the conflict, the rights of the Iranian people continue to be stripped away by the authorities in harsh and cruel ways," Türk said.