Iran faces mounting international pressure as reports emerge that a young protester may be executed. President Donald Trump warns of “strong action” if executions proceed. Trump has urged demonstrators to continue and promised that “help is on its way.” Tehran remains under heavy security, with sources describing the atmosphere as tense and fearful.
TEHRAN JANUARY 14: US estimates suggest thousands have been killed during Iran’s nationwide unrest, with some broadcasters putting the toll as high as 20,000 and Reuters reporting roughly 2,000 deaths in the past fortnight alone. No official figures have been released, as families accuse authorities of using executions to crush dissent and spread fear.
They say detainees are being rushed through the courts and scheduled to be put to death as a warning to others. Among them is activist Erfan Soltani, whose relatives say he is scheduled to be executed tomorrow.
Iran insists it has regained control, but protesters claim a five-day internet blackout is concealing the crackdown, with videos showing bodies in a Tehran morgue and families searching for loved ones.
The leader of Iran’s judiciary has said there will be rapid trials and executions for those arrested in nationwide protests. Washington has threatened military action over the crackdown.
Iran faces mounting international pressure as reports emerge that a young protester may be executed. The case has intensified scrutiny of Tehran’s violent crackdown, which has left thousands dead and tens of thousands detained, while President Donald Trump warns of “strong action” if executions proceed.
