The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Iran is warning about a surge in executions by the Islamic republic.

In his latest report to the UN General Assembly, Ahmed Shaheed said at least 852 people, including 8 juvenile offenders, were executed in Iran between July 2013 and June 2014.

He said the figure represents an “alarming increase” in executions by Iran.

He also said that despite “some recent advances by the Iranian government and the parliament,” Iran’s human rights situation remains a serious concern.

Shaheed also warned about censorship and other pressure on Iranian media, noting that about 35 journalists are currently jailed in Iran.

He was due to present his report to the UN General Assembly’s human rights committee on October 28.

With reporting by RFE/RL’s Golnaz Esfandiari in Washington
RFE/RL