Iranian Singer Ali Mirzayi spared execution after victim's family grants pardon

Ali Mirzayi, a well-known Iranian singer, was spared execution at the last moment after the family of the murder victim waived their right to qisas, or retaliation, and granted a pardon. Bab al-Hira prison authorities announced the execution was halted in the morning following mediation efforts by judicial bodies. The victim's family had requested a postponement to allow time for reconciliation negotiations. Iran's judiciary confirmed it had worked intensively to persuade the victim's close relatives to drop the qisas claim. Under Iranian law, blood money or forgiveness are recognized options in intentional homicide cases. After the legal procedures are finalized, Mirzayi is expected to be released or have his sentence commuted. A crowd gathered outside the prison to celebrate the annulment of the execution order.