But the downward trend in capital punishment is clear. Deathsentences have been falling steadily, down from a peak of 326 in 1995 to an estimated 110 last year.
The statement was not reported inside Iran and neither was the news of stoning deathsentences for 15 other Iranians.
这篇声明没有在伊朗境内报道，另外15名判处扔石刑的伊朗人的消息也不为人知。
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Although Mr Larijani has responded by vowing to respect legal procedure, others in the judiciary say that those facing deathsentences will meet their fate soon.