A 26-year-old owner of a clothing store in Iran is facing imminent execution as part of the government’s severe crackdown on ongoing protests in the country. Erfan Soltani was apprehended at his residence in Fardis, central Iran, following his alleged involvement in recent anti-government demonstrations. Human rights organizations have reported that he will have only ten minutes to meet with his family before his scheduled hanging on Wednesday.
Erfan was said to have been denied access to legal representation, and it appears that no formal trial took place based on information provided by his family. This development has added to the distress of Iranians who have described witnessing scenes of extreme violence, with reports emerging that another 26-year-old protester is also set to face execution.
The escalation of tensions comes amid admissions from officials that over 2,000 people, including more than 100 security personnel, have lost their lives during the past two weeks of civil unrest in Iran. Concerns are mounting that further mass executions could occur as the death toll continues to rise dramatically, fueling fears of widespread state-sanctioned violence.
As the situation unfolds, reports from within Tehran indicate a state of chaos and fear, with accounts of live rounds being fired, streets awash with blood, and bodies being hastily removed. Additionally, verified footage confirms the use of force by Iranian security forces, including shootings in various locations across the country.
While authorities in Iran have attributed the unrest to external influences, specifically blaming the US and Israel for instigating the protests, the international community remains on edge. President Masoud Pezeshkian has accused foreign elements of orchestrating violence and destabilizing the country, adding to the volatile atmosphere.
As the Iranian government continues its crackdown on dissent, concerns about potential repercussions, including strikes and international intervention, are growing among local residents. Many fear the uncertain future ahead, with speculations about further protests and the involvement of external powers looming over the troubled nation.