Reports indicate that Iran is set to execute its first protester amid a wave of mass arrests linked to ongoing anti-regime protests, as highlighted by human rights organizations.
The Iranian Human Rights Organization (IHRNGO) and the Iranian National Union for Democracy (NUFD) revealed that 26-year-old Erfan Soltani, who was detained during a protest in Karaj last week, is scheduled to be hanged on Wednesday.
Sources informed IHRNGO that Soltani’s family was notified about his death sentence, expected to be executed on January 14.
Mahmoud Amiri Moghaddam, the Director-General of IHRNGO, stated, “The recent widespread killings of civilian demonstrators by the Islamic Republic echo the regime’s past crimes in the 1980s, recognized as crimes against humanity.”
NUFD underscored that Soltani’s alleged “crime” was simply advocating for freedom in Iran, appealing for international action to stop his execution.
“Let’s raise our voices for him,” the organization urged on social media.
It’s also reported that Soltani was denied legal representation.
As per the US Sun, Soltani is charged with “waging war against God,” which carries the death penalty in Iran.
While the details of Soltani’s impending execution haven’t been independently verified due to a communications blackout aimed at quelling opposition, human rights groups suggest that over 10,000 individuals have been arrested in recent weeks due to anti-government protests, largely fueled by Iran’s economic difficulties. Calls for a complete regime change have gained traction as these demonstrations continue.
Human rights organizations also claim that more than 500 fatalities have occurred during the government’s crackdown on protests in Tehran.
President Donald Trump has warned Tehran against violent actions towards protesters. His message was clear: “You better not start shooting, because we’re going to start shooting too.”
On social media, Trump expressed solidarity with the Iranian protesters, stating, “Iran wants freedom more than perhaps ever before. America stands ready to help!!!”
The White House acknowledged that Trump is contemplating military action against Iran, although diplomacy remains the preferred approach. Press secretary Caroline Levitt mentioned that the president isn’t hesitant to consider military options if necessary, emphasizing his desire to prevent further violence in Tehran.
While many support the idea of a strong response, some members of Congress, including Republicans, have opposing views regarding military action, expressing concerns about needing constitutional approval for such measures. They argue that intervening might unify Iranian citizens against foreign aggression.
Senator Rand Paul remarked, “I wish them the best. We want freedom everywhere, but we believe it’s not the role of the American government to intervene in every freedom struggle across the globe.”
Additionally, Iranian officials have issued threats to retaliate against U.S. forces in the region should attacks occur, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserting that Iran is “fully prepared for war.”
