Iran Set to Execute 26-Year-Old Protester Amid Nationwide Unrest

Iran is reportedly poised to execute **Erfan Soltani**, a 26-year-old protester, as the first known case following widespread anti-government demonstrations. Human rights organizations, including **Iran Human Rights (IHR)** and the **National Union for Democracy in Iran (NUFD)**, indicate that Soltani’s execution is scheduled for **January 14, 2024**. He was arrested during protests in **Karaj** last Thursday.

According to the IHR, Soltani’s family has been informed of the death sentence, which is linked to his expression of dissent against the Iranian regime. The NUFD has called for international action to prevent his execution, asserting that Soltani’s only crime is advocating for freedom in Iran. Reports suggest he has been denied access to legal representation, hampering his ability to defend himself.

Soltani faces charges of “waging war against God,” a serious offense in Iran that carries the death penalty. The details of his case remain difficult to verify due to a communication blackout imposed by the Iranian government amid the ongoing unrest.

The protests, ignited by frustrations over the country’s declining economy, have led to more than **10,000 arrests** in the past two weeks. Human rights groups report that at least **500 individuals** have died as a consequence of the government’s violent crackdown on demonstrators, who are labeled as “rioters” by authorities.

Concerns Over Mass Executions

**Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam**, Director of IHR, has expressed grave concerns about the potential for mass executions of detainees. He emphasized the urgency for the international community to act, citing the principle of “Responsibility to Protect” as a moral imperative to safeguard civilian protesters against state-sponsored violence. Amiry-Moghaddam stated, “The risk of mass and extrajudicial executions of protesters is extremely serious.”

In a related context, **Former President Donald Trump** has issued a warning to Tehran, asserting that any violence against protesters will elicit a military response from the United States. White House Press Secretary **Karoline Leavitt** confirmed that while diplomatic measures are the preferred approach, Trump is ready to consider military options if deemed necessary.

Leavitt remarked, “He certainly doesn’t want to see people being killed in the streets of Tehran. And unfortunately that’s something we are seeing right now.”

In response, Iranian officials have threatened retaliation against U.S. forces in the region should military action be undertaken. **Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi** asserted that Iran is “fully prepared for war,” highlighting the tense atmosphere surrounding the ongoing protests and the potential for escalation in hostilities.

The situation remains fluid, with human rights advocates calling for immediate intervention to prevent further loss of life and to safeguard those exercising their right to protest in Iran.