Iran Denies Execution Plan for Detained Protester: Erfan Soltani's Case and the Ongoing Protests
In a recent development, Iran's judiciary has refuted claims that they have scheduled the execution of a man arrested in connection with the country's recent protests. The case of Erfan Soltani, a 26-year-old man, has sparked international concern, with a Norway-based Kurdish human rights organization, Hengaw, reporting that his family was informed of an imminent execution just days after his arrest.
Hengaw's statement on Wednesday revealed that Soltani's execution had been 'postponed,' but they emphasized that 'serious and ongoing concerns' for his life remained. This news comes amidst a backdrop of escalating tensions and speculation about potential US military action. US President Donald Trump, who had previously warned Iran against executing protesters, expressed relief, stating, 'This is good news. Hopefully, it will continue!' However, the Iranian judiciary provided a different perspective, denying the execution and attributing the reports to 'blatant news fabrication.'
The charges against Soltani, as stated by the judiciary, include 'colluding against national security' and 'propaganda activities against the establishment.' Interestingly, these charges are not punishable by the death penalty, according to state broadcaster IRIB. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also weighed in, denying any plans to execute individuals. These statements come in the wake of President Trump's threat to take 'very strong action' if executions were carried out, amidst growing speculation of potential US military strikes.
On Wednesday, President Trump informed reporters that 'very important sources on the other side' had confirmed that 'the killing in Iran is stopping, and there's no plan for executions.' This development has raised questions about the accuracy of the initial reports and the ongoing situation in Iran. Hengaw further added that Soltani had been denied access to a lawyer and that his family was unaware of any official charges against him.
Soltani, a clothes shop owner, was arrested at his home last Thursday in connection with the protests in Fardis, a northern city west of Tehran. However, the judiciary claims he was arrested during 'riots' on Saturday and is being held in a prison in the neighboring city of Karaj. Iran's chief justice, Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei, has advocated for swift trials and punishments for arrested 'rioters,' emphasizing the importance of acting quickly to maintain impact.
The current wave of protests in Iran began due to shopkeepers' strikes over rising living costs and currency depreciation in Tehran. The protests quickly spread across the country, turning against the clerical establishment, particularly the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Demonstrators chanted slogans like 'Death to the dictator' and 'Seyyed Ali [Khamenei] will be toppled this year.' The authorities responded with deadly force, using a near-total shutdown of internet and communication services to suppress the protests.
According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), the protests have resulted in a devastating toll, with at least 2,435 protesters killed, including 13 children, and 153 people affiliated with security forces or the government. Additionally, HRANA reports that 18,470 protesters have been arrested, highlighting the scale of the unrest and the challenges faced by the Iranian authorities in managing the situation.
