Article 302 of the Iranian Penal Code

Study Notes

Article 302 of the Iranian Penal Code

Overview

Article 302 is part of the Criminal Procedure Act within the Iranian Penal Code. It defines various forms of offenses related to national security and crimes against the state order, which can lead to severe punishment, including execution. These offenses encompass activities deemed to have a negative impact on the country's political stability, economic wellbeing, or religious sensibilities. Some common examples of these crimes include espionage, sabotage, propaganda against the Islamic Republic, and attacks on government officials or institutions.

Espionage Offenses

Espionage is defined under Article 302 as any action taken with the intention of gathering a military secret or information pertaining to internal security matters. This offense carries heavy penalties, including imprisonment and even capital punishment in certain cases where it is considered to pose a direct threat to national security.

Sabotage Offenses

Sabotage refers to any act aimed at damaging public or private property, particularly those belonging to the government, military, or financial institutions. These acts can also result in endangering human life, causing serious harm, or disrupting critical infrastructure. Punishment for sabotage includes prison sentences ranging from three months to life, along with fines up to ten times the average monthly wage.

Propaganda Against the Islamic Republic

Propaganda against the Islamic Republic involves actions intended to undermine the state's authority by spreading false information, creating rumors, or disseminating materials deemed offensive to the Islamic regime. Such activity may result in imprisonment and other consequences depending on the severity of the offense.

Attacks on Government Officials or Institutions

Acts of violence or intimidation against government officials or institutions can lead to charges under Article 302. These crimes carry significant punishments, such as life imprisonment for bodily injury leading to death.

The application of Article 302 and the associated penalties is subject to the discretion of the judicial system in Iran, which can be influenced by a variety of factors including political climate, public opinion, and the severity of the offense. Despite the potential for leniency in certain cases, the harsh punishments outlined in Article 302 serve as a deterrent to potential offenders, particularly those engaging in activities that may be perceived as threatening to the state's stability.

Description

Explore the provisions of Article 302 in the Iranian Penal Code, which covers offenses related to national security and crimes against the state order. Learn about espionage, sabotage, propaganda against the Islamic Republic, and attacks on government officials or institutions, along with the severe punishments that can be imposed for violating these laws.