Iran quietly backs away from stoning
UPI
13-Aug-2010 (one comment)

TEHRAN, Aug. 13 (UPI) -- Outrage over plans to stone to death a 43-year-old mother of two has prompted Iran to change its method of execution from stoning to hanging, observers say.

The Guardian reported Friday Iran is quietly changing the sentences of those awaiting death by stoning to hanging.

The Islamic Republic's move comes after international condemnation of its plans to execute by stoning Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani, the mother awaiting execution. She will instead by hanged, The Guardian said.

At least 12 Iranian women and three men are awaiting execution by stoning.

Houtan Kian, who represents Mohammadi Ashtiani and two other women in Tabriz prison who have been convicted of adultery, said none will be stoned.

"All these women are convicted for adultery but Iran is trying to change their sentences after Sakineh's case has embarrassed them," Kian said.

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AMIR1973

A victory for IRI "reform"

by AMIR1973 on

Dear IranFirst, interesting article (as yours often are). This is a perfect microcosm of the "reform" path that some of our brothers and sisters on Iranian.com advocate, i.e. working patiently and within the Blessed System to achieve small but substantial and real victories that will leave a lasting impact. "Reforming" stoning in favor of hanging may not seem like much to you, but that is because you are an "out of touch exile". To real Iranians, this signals meaningful change. I humbly propose the next 2 items on the "reform" agenda: 1) limp amputations be performed by the most highly skilled surgeons, and 2) the number of lashes mandated by law be reduced by 5%. That is something that most of our "reformist" compatriots can get behind. Regards.