A young Iranian protester, Erfan Soltani, is facing imminent execution for his participation in anti-government demonstrations, with reports indicating he was allowed only ten minutes to say goodbye to his family. According to IranWire, Soltani, aged 26, was arrested during protests in Karaj on January 8 and was informed by security officials that this would be their final farewell before his execution.
Soltani is believed to be among the first of the detained protesters to be scheduled for death. His case has raised significant concerns regarding the legal processes followed, as he was reportedly denied access to legal representation and a trial. The Iran Human Rights (IHR) NGO noted that even a close relative who is a lawyer faced obstruction and threats from security agents, who claimed, “There is no file to review. We announced that anyone arrested in the protests would be executed,” according to a family source.
In addition to these barriers, Soltani’s family has allegedly faced threats of arrest if they attempt to speak publicly about his case or engage with the media. He is charged with “waging war against God,” a capital offense in Iran.
The details surrounding Soltani’s potential execution have not been independently verified due to a nationwide communications blackout in Iran. The protester previously worked in the clothing industry and participated in widespread demonstrations against the Iranian regime, which have erupted across all 31 provinces since late December. Rights groups report that over 10,000 individuals have been arrested amid these protests, with estimates of the death toll ranging from 500 to 2,000, as documented by the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA).
As the situation escalates, former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly supported the protesters, urging them to continue their demonstrations. On social media platform Truth Social, he stated, “Iranian Patriots, KEEP PROTESTING – TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!!… HELP IS ON ITS WAY.” Trump has intensified his rhetoric against the Iranian regime, declaring he would cancel all meetings with Iranian officials until the “senseless killing” of protesters ceases.
The developments surrounding Soltani’s case highlight ongoing tensions in Iran, as the government faces mounting pressure from both domestic protests and international criticism. The global community continues to watch closely as the situation unfolds, with calls for justice and human rights remaining at the forefront of discussions.
