Iran Under Growing Pressure Amid Protest Death Toll and Reports of Imminent Execution

Photo: Iran International

Iran is facing intensifying international scrutiny as nationwide anti-government protests enter their third week, with human rights groups reporting a sharply rising death toll and activists warning of possible executions aimed at suppressing dissent.

Protest Death Toll and Blackout

Nearly 500 protesters have been killed since demonstrations erupted across Iran, according to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA). CNN reports it is unable to independently verify HRANA’s casualty figures.

At the same time, Iranian authorities have imposed a communications blackout that has now lasted more than three days, severely restricting internet access and limiting independent reporting from inside the country.

The protests, initially sparked by economic grievances, have evolved into a broader challenge to Iran’s political leadership, spreading across major cities and continuing despite heavy security presence.

Reported Death Sentence for Protester

Human rights organizations say the crackdown may be entering a more severe phase. The Kurdish-based monitoring group Hengaw reports that Erfan Soltani, a 26-year-old protester arrested during recent demonstrations, has been sentenced to death following expedited court proceedings.

According to Hengaw, Soltani’s execution is scheduled for January 14, 2026, just days after his arrest. The group says his family was informed of the sentence on January 11 and allowed only a brief visit. Hengaw claims Soltani was denied access to a lawyer and a meaningful opportunity to appeal.

These details have not been independently confirmed by Iranian authorities or major international news organizations. Iranian officials have not publicly commented on Soltani’s case.

Trump Warns Iran as Talks Are Floated

President Donald Trump said Iran has “called to negotiate” with Washington as his administration weighs potential military options in response to the unfolding crisis.

Trump has also publicly warned Iranian authorities against killing protesters, saying the United States would “get involved” if executions or mass killings occur. Iran’s foreign minister responded that Tehran is prepared to negotiate with the U.S., but only on the basis of “mutual respect and interests.”

Protests and Diplomatic Fallout Beyond Iran

The unrest has spilled beyond Iran’s borders, triggering diplomatic and security incidents abroad.

In Los Angeles, one person was detained after driving a truck through a crowd of protesters demonstrating against the Iranian government.

In Tehran, Iranian authorities summoned the British ambassador after a protester in London tore down the Iranian flag from the Iranian embassy.

European Leaders Condemn Violence

On January 9, 2026, the leaders of Germany, France, and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement condemning violence against protesters and urging Iranian authorities to respect fundamental rights.

“We are deeply concerned about reports of violence by Iranian security forces, and strongly condemn the killing of protestors,” the statement said, calling on Iran to allow freedom of expression and peaceful assembly without fear of reprisal.

Rights groups warn that if executions proceed, Iran could face deeper international isolation and escalating tensions with Western governments, as the protest movement shows no sign of abating.