UN warns of rising executions and arrests in Iran

The United Nations says Iran has sharply increased executions, arrests and other crackdowns on dissent since late February, as the country faces the fallout from renewed conflict and unrest. U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk said in a statement from Geneva that at least 21 people have been executed and more than 4,000 arrested on national securityrelated charges since Feb. 28. He said authorities have also used torture, coerced confessions and prolonged internet shutdowns while citing national security. The U.N. said some detainees have faced harsh prison conditions, including limited access to food, water and medical care. It also raised concerns about the treatment of political prisoners, including Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi, whose health has reportedly worsened in prison.