WASHINGTON: The United States condemned the execution of an Iranian woman on Saturday, stating that “confessions were made under severe duress”.

“We condemn this morning’s execution in Iran,” said US State Department’s spokesperson Jen Psaki. “There were serious concerns with the fairness of the trial and the circumstances surrounding this case.” Ms Psaki pointed out that Iranian authorities proceeded with this execution despite pleas from Iranian human rights activists and an international outcry over this case.

“We join our voice with those who call on Iran to respect the fair trial guarantees afforded to its people under Iran’s own laws and its international obligations,” she said.

Published in Dawn, October 26th, 2014