Iran’s drug-law change could save 5,000 lives

Iran has now begun implementing new guidelines that will prevent thousands of convicted drug smugglers from being executed.

The new regulations limit the death penalty to drug kingpins, armed dealers and those convicted of smuggling more than 50kg (110lb) of opium or 2kg of heroin. Previously, the law prescribed the death penalty for smuggling 20kg of opium or 30g of heroin. Judicial head Ayatollah Sadegh Amoli Larijani ordered officials to “quickly” review cases. The decision could save more than 5,000 convicts.