Erfan Soltani: Iran Denies Execution Plan for Detained Protester
In a recent development, Iran's judiciary has refuted claims that it had scheduled the execution of a man arrested in connection with the country's recent protests. The denial comes after a Norway-based Kurdish human rights organization, Hengaw, reported that the family of 26-year-old Erfan Soltani had been informed of his impending execution just days after his arrest.
Hengaw's statement on Wednesday indicated that Soltani's execution had been 'postponed,' but they emphasized that 'serious and ongoing concerns' regarding his life remained. This news has sparked reactions from various quarters, including US President Donald Trump, who had previously warned Iran against executing protesters.
The judiciary's response to the initial reports was swift, denying that Soltani faced execution and attributing the information to 'blatant acts of news fabrication.' They also clarified that Soltani was charged with 'colluding against national security' and 'propaganda activities against the establishment,' which are not punishable by the death penalty.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi echoed this sentiment, stating that there was 'no plan' to execute people. These statements come in the wake of President Trump's threats of 'very strong action' if executions were carried out, amidst growing speculation of potential US military strikes.
However, Hengaw provided additional details, revealing that Soltani had been denied access to a lawyer and that his family was unaware of any official charges against him. The organization also noted that Soltani was arrested at his home last Thursday in connection with the protests in Fardis, a northern city west of Tehran.
The judiciary, however, offered a different account, stating that Soltani was arrested during 'riots' on Saturday and was being held in a prison in the neighboring city of Karaj. Iran's chief justice, Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei, has called for swift trials and punishments for arrested 'rioters,' emphasizing the need for prompt action to maintain impact.
The current wave of protests in Iran began with shopkeepers in Tehran striking over rising living costs and currency depreciation. The protests quickly spread across the country, turning against the clerical establishment, particularly Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Slogans like 'Death to the dictator' and 'Seyyed Ali [Khamenei] will be toppled this year' were chanted by demonstrators.
The authorities responded to the protests with deadly force, accompanied by a near-total shutdown of internet and communication services. According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), at least 2,435 protesters have been killed, including 13 children, and 153 people affiliated with security forces or the government. Additionally, HRANA reports that 18,470 protesters have been arrested.
