Reports regarding the imminent execution of 26-year-old Erfan Soltani, arrested in connection with recent protests in Iran, have been denied by the Iranian judiciary. Initially, human rights groups and Soltani's family reported he was sentenced to death and faced execution on Wednesday. However, the judiciary stated Soltani faces charges not punishable by death and described prior reports as "fabrication," while a human rights group later updated that the execution had been "postponed."
Initial Reports and Arrest Details
Erfan Soltani, 26, was arrested on Thursday, January 8, in Fardis, west of Tehran, during widespread protests. Soltani, who owns a clothes shop in Fardis, Karaj, was reportedly apprehended at his private residence. He lost contact with his family on January 8 amidst mass protests and an internet shutdown.
Norway-based Kurdish human rights group Hengaw and Soltani's family reported that he had been sentenced to death and was scheduled for execution on Wednesday. Amnesty International also highlighted Soltani's situation, stating that an informed source learned on January 11 that officials had communicated his death sentence to his family. A relative reportedly told BBC Persian that a court issued the death sentence within two days of his arrest. Authorities reportedly informed his family that his arrest was related to a protest but provided no further details. Soltani's sister, a lawyer, was reportedly told there was "nothing to pursue" regarding his case.
Judiciary's Denial and Stated Charges
Iran's judiciary subsequently denied reports of a scheduled execution for Erfan Soltani. State broadcaster IRIB cited the judiciary as stating Soltani faces charges of "colluding against national security" and "propaganda activities against the establishment," neither of which are punishable by the death penalty. The judiciary categorized reports by foreign media organizations concerning Soltani's execution as "a blatant act of news fabrication." Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also affirmed there was "no plan" to carry out executions.
Following these denials, Hengaw reported that Soltani's execution had been "postponed," while noting that "serious and ongoing concerns" for his life persisted.
Human Rights Concerns
Human rights organizations expressed concerns over Soltani's case and broader legal processes in Iran. Amnesty International cautioned that Iranian authorities might "once again resort to swift trials and arbitrary executions to crush and deter dissent." Awyer Shekhi of Hengaw indicated that Soltani had not been allowed contact with his family since his arrest. Hengaw stated that Iran's handling of Soltani's case "constitutes a clear violation of international human rights law," suggesting the death penalty is being used to suppress public protests. Monitors indicate that Iran is considered one of the world's most prolific executioners.
Context of Wider Protests
Soltani's arrest occurred during widespread protests that reportedly spread across more than 180 cities and towns in all 31 provinces of Iran. These demonstrations were initially fueled by anger over the Iranian currency's collapse and rising cost of living, later evolving into demands for political change. An internet blackout was imposed last Thursday, complicating information gathering.
According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), 2,417 protesters, 12 children, and 10 uninvolved civilians have been killed during the unrest. HRANA also reported nearly 150 security forces or government affiliates killed and at least 18,434 protesters arrested. Iran's judiciary chief, Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei, pledged swift legal action against "rioters," stating those who committed "terrorist acts" would be prioritized for trial and punishment. Authorities reportedly planned open trials for some key figures involved in the unrest, accessible to media.
International Response
The US State Department's Farsi-language X account commented that Soltani might not be the last protester to be sentenced to death. US President Donald Trump had previously warned Iran against executing protesters, stating the U.S. would take "very strong action" if executions occurred. Following the judiciary's denial, President Trump told reporters that sources had indicated "the killing in Iran is stopping, and there's no plan for executions."