Iran’s Chief Justice Gholamhossein Mohseni has pledged to expedite the trials of individuals arrested during recent protests across the country. The announcement was made on Wednesday through state television, which described the demonstrations as “riots.” During a visit to a Tehran prison where many detainees are being held, Mohseni stated that authorities must act quickly in cases involving violence such as arson or beheadings.

According to Iranian news agencies, Mohseni also called for the trials to be conducted publicly. Reports said he spent about five hours at the Tehran facility reviewing case files of those detained in connection with the unrest. Human rights organizations have claimed that thousands of people have been arrested in the recent protests and expressed fears that Iran’s judiciary may impose widespread death sentences.

The situation has heightened international concern over human rights conditions in Iran, as observers warn that the judiciary’s approach could further escalate tensions within the country.