In a shocking incident, two prominent Iranian judges were shot dead during an armed assault at the supreme court in Tehran on Saturday. Judges Ali Razini and Mohammad Moghiseh were targeted by an unidentified gunman who then reportedly took his own life while attempting to escape. Initial reports suggest that a bodyguard sustained injuries during the violent exchange.
Two Supreme Court Judges in Iran Assassinated in Attack
Two Supreme Court Judges in Iran Assassinated in Attack
Iranian judiciary faces turmoil as armed attack claims the lives of two senior judges in Tehran.
The motive behind this attack remains unclear; however, both judges were known for their controversial roles in the persecution of regime opponents in the late 20th century. The judiciary's media office has characterized the attack as a premeditated assassination, asserting that preliminary investigations indicate the shooter had no previous involvement with any cases adjudicated by the supreme court.
According to judiciary spokesman Asghar Jahangir, the assailant gained access to the court facility armed with a handgun and opened fire upon entry. Notably, Razini had previously survived an assassination attempt over two decades ago. Moghiseh, who was sanctioned by the U.S. government in 2019 for his involvement in unfair judicial proceedings, had recently also faced sanctions from Canada for his alleged participation in severe human rights abuses.
As investigations continue, Iranian authorities are seeking to identify any individuals connected to this brazen attack. The ramifications of the judges' deaths could resonate throughout the Iranian legal system, deepening concerns over judicial independence and the safety of those within the judiciary.
The incident adds to the increasing tensions surrounding Iran’s political landscape and raises further questions about the safety of officials in the face of longstanding opposition to the Islamic regime.
According to judiciary spokesman Asghar Jahangir, the assailant gained access to the court facility armed with a handgun and opened fire upon entry. Notably, Razini had previously survived an assassination attempt over two decades ago. Moghiseh, who was sanctioned by the U.S. government in 2019 for his involvement in unfair judicial proceedings, had recently also faced sanctions from Canada for his alleged participation in severe human rights abuses.
As investigations continue, Iranian authorities are seeking to identify any individuals connected to this brazen attack. The ramifications of the judges' deaths could resonate throughout the Iranian legal system, deepening concerns over judicial independence and the safety of those within the judiciary.
The incident adds to the increasing tensions surrounding Iran’s political landscape and raises further questions about the safety of officials in the face of longstanding opposition to the Islamic regime.
