The first known executions of people arrested over the monthslong protests prompted an outcry from Western governments and human rights activists, but they came as little surprise to those involved in the demonstrations or carefully watching them from afar.A week earlier, Iran executed another man, Mohsen Shekari, for allegedly blocking a road in Tehran and stabbing a pro-government militia member who required stitches.But this time, “if anything, they are moving quicker now to execute protesters with sham trials that even their own side are criticizing.” Some protesters feel that the regime may also be using executions as a way to shore up its own supporters, and reduce the risk of dissent in its ranks by showing it will deal severely with alleged crimes against members of the security forces and pro-government militia.“This means that for each and every one of their security forces who dies, they will be hanging a protester by the neck in retaliation.” The executions have been met with a range of emotions among Iranians at home and abroad.Saeed says he was so despondent when he heard about the first execution last week that he was lying in bed all morning unable to move."