Iran is reportedly preparing to carry out the first execution connected to the latest wave of anti-regime demonstrations, after a series of mass arrests across the country.
Human rights groups say Erfan Soltani, 26, was arrested on January 8 in Karaj, near Tehran, for allegedly taking part in nationwide protests against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He is now scheduled to be hanged on Wednesday, with activists alleging the case moved forward without a fair trial.
“His family was told that he had been sentenced to death and that the sentence is due to be carried out on 14 January,” the Norway-based NGO Iran Human Rights (IHR) reported.
Rights monitors say Soltani’s family was informed on January 11 that he had received a death sentence, citing the Hengaw Organisation. They were reportedly allowed only a short 10-minute visit with him afterward.
A report by Israel- and US-based news outlet Jfeed suggested Soltani’s case could signal the start of a broader push toward rapid executions intended to deter further demonstrations.
Trump Warns Iran Against Executions
As international attention grows, U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly warned Iran against killing protesters, saying the country would face consequences if executions proceed.
On Tuesday, Trump posted on X telling protesters that “help is on its way.”
He also told CBS News that the United States would respond if Iran began hanging protesters, after Tehran prosecutors said authorities could pursue capital charges of “moharebeh”—or “waging war against God”—against some people arrested during the recent protests.
“We will take very strong action if they do such a thing,” Trump said. “When they start killing thousands of people — and now you’re telling me about hanging. We’ll see how that’s going to work out for them,” he added.
Protests Spread Amid Economic Crisis
Iran is facing one of its most serious challenges in years, as demonstrations have expanded in recent weeks amid mounting economic pressure. Rights groups accuse authorities of using lethal force against protesters and obscuring the scale of the crackdown through internet restrictions and blackouts.
The protests began in early January, fueled by economic distress and a sharp decline in the value of the Iranian rial. What started in Tehran’s bazaars reportedly spread to other cities, with shopkeepers, students, and residents joining in and demanding relief from worsening conditions.
