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2 Iranians face execution over drinking
Islamic Republic finds two men in 'persistent' violation of its alcohol consumption edicts; order they be flogged, executed
Two Iranians have been sentenced to death for "persistent consumption of alcohol," which is in violation of the Islamic Republic's laws, Ynet learned Wednesday.
Tehran's Sharia Law forbids the use, manufacturing and trading of any kind of alcoholic drink.
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The two had been previously found guilty of similar offenses, which earned them 160 lashes each. A third conviction made them liable for the death penalty.
Iranian Judiciary Chief Seyed Hasan Shariati told the ISNA news agency that "the Supreme Court had upheld their death sentences and officials were preparing for their execution."
''Two people who committed the offence of consuming alcohol for the third time have been sentenced to be executed,'' he said. ''The verdict has been confirmed by the Supreme Court and we are preparing to administer it.''
Under Iranian law crimes such as sodomy, rape, theft, fornication, apostasy and the consumption of alcohol for the third time are considered to be ''claims of God'' and carry a mandatory death sentences.
In regard to alcohol consumption, Shariati warned: ''We will show no mercy in finding, trying and punishing those breaking the law, and we will punish them to the highest extent.''
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