Iran Denies Death Sentence for Protester Erfan Soltani Amid Crackdown

Iran's judiciary has denied any plan to execute Erfan Soltani, a 26-year-old protester detained during recent unrest. Officials say he faces charges that carry prison time, not death, while his family and rights groups claim he was sentenced to hang before a reported postponement. The case highlights tensions in Karaj, near Tehran, where Soltani was arrested on January 8 as protests spread across the country over economic woes and government policies.

Background

Protests broke out in late December after the Iranian rial collapsed, sparking anger over high prices and shortages. Demonstrations started in cities like Tehran and Shiraz, then spread to places like Karaj and Sanandaj. People took to the streets calling for change, facing a strong response from security forces.

Reports from inside Iran describe a heavy security presence. In Karaj, where Soltani lives, residents say forces patrol streets on motorbikes and trucks. Access to hospitals is limited, and people move carefully due to the dense presence of armed personnel. Similar scenes play out in other areas, with restrictions on traffic and movement.

The unrest has led to internet and phone blackouts, making it hard to get clear information. Rights groups say this limits reports on what is happening. The UN human rights chief has called for access to be restored, noting concerns over violence during the protests.

Death toll estimates vary widely. Some sources put it at 12,000 or more nationwide, with over 2,600 arrests. Iranian officials reject these numbers, calling them false claims from outside media. They blame foreign powers for stirring trouble.

Soltani, a clothes shop owner from Fardis near Karaj, got caught up in this. His family says he opposed the situation but was not a political activist. He was arrested days after protests peaked in his area.

Key Details

Soltani is held at the central prison in Karaj. The judiciary says he faces charges of colluding against internal security and propaganda against the system. Under Iranian law, these do not carry the death penalty. If convicted, he would get prison time.

His family heard different news at first. A relative said Soltani went through a quick trial and got a death sentence. Rights groups like Hengaw, in touch with the family, reported the same. They said officials told the family an execution was set for Wednesday, but it was later postponed.

The judiciary called these reports made up. A statement from their media center said no death sentence exists for Soltani. They stressed the charges only allow for jail.

Family and Rights Group Accounts

Somayeh, Soltani's second cousin, spoke out about his case. She said the arrest came amid blockades on information from Iran. The family has not been able to contact him fully. He has no access to a lawyer or family visits, according to those close to the case.

"He was arrested because of the protest, but we don't know if he actually participated because there is no information or evidence." – Awyar Shekhi, Hengaw representative

Groups like Amnesty International warn of fast trials and harsh punishments to stop dissent. They point to past cases where charges like waging war against God led to executions. Iran's judiciary head has told prosecutors to act without mercy against protesters.

Security measures have grown. In Shiraz, more military units arrived with limits on movement. In Sanandaj, people spotted forces speaking Arabic. Witnesses describe raids on medical centers, where injured protesters were taken away and some shot.

What This Means

Soltani's case shows the confusion around detentions in the protests. Official denials clash with family claims, raising questions about trials and rights. If the judiciary holds firm, Soltani avoids execution but could still face years in prison.

The broader crackdown affects thousands. Over 2,600 arrests mean many families wait in uncertainty. Internet cuts hide the full picture, but reports of killings and restrictions paint a tense scene across Iran.

Outside voices add pressure. US President Donald Trump warned of strong action if executions happen. He later said killings are stopping and no plans exist for hangings. Iran's parliament speaker hit back, saying any US attack would target American bases.

Exiled figures like Reza Pahlavi urge people to keep protesting and take state buildings. Trump echoed calls for help to those in the streets. Iranian leaders frame the unrest as riots backed by enemies like the US and Israel.

In Karaj and beyond, daily life is strained. People avoid talking openly. Security patrols keep order, but resentment lingers over deaths and arrests. Economic issues that sparked the protests remain, with the rial's fall hitting shops like Soltani's hard.

Rights groups fear more executions if charges change. Past waves saw serious accusations against protesters. For now, Soltani's fate hangs on the charges sticking as described. Families watch closely, hoping for contact and fair treatment.

The standoff continues without formal emergency rules nationwide. Protests have quieted in some spots after clashes, but underlying anger persists. Security forces hold the streets, while the world watches for next moves.