Iran's Chief Justice says death sentences of several protesters have been confirmed and they will be executed soon.

Gholam-Hossein Mohseni Ejei stated Monday that “rioters” will be promptly dealt with by the judiciary and security organizations. Ejei further went on to express that the protesters who have been condemned to death would soon be executed.

It is not clear whether prisoners whohave been formally sentenced would have any remaining right to appeal.

Iran’s use of the death penalty for protesters has been sharply criticized by the United Nations while some countries and many right groups have also condemned the move.

According to Amnesty International at least 28 inmates currently face execution for participation in the demonstrations, including three minors.

Meanwhile, the Revolutionary Guard released a statement to praise the judiciary’s decision urging it to decisively issue verdicts against “defendants accused of crimes against the security of the nation and Islam.”

“The country's security, intelligence, law enforcement and mobilization forces will not hesitate to deal decisively with rioters, thugs and the terrorists hired by the enemy,” Tasnim News Agency quoted the IRGC as saying.

Hardliners led by the IRGC call protesters “rioters” and “thugs”.

The threats by the Judiciary and the IRGC come amid nationwide strikes by workers and businesses to overthrow the clerical regime.

Many believe such remarks following the calls for three-day strikes and protests across the country are to scare the demonstrators to stop their movement to oust regime.