Fears grow for detained Iranian Erfan Soltani, who may be executed for joining anti-government protests

Key Details of the Case

Fears are growing for the fate of a detained Iranian protester, Erfan Soltani, who may soon be executed, according to a family member and the US State Department. Soltani, a 26-year-old man, was arrested during anti-government protests in Iran and has been sentenced to death.

Legal Charges and Sentencing

Erfan Soltani is reportedly charged with ‘waging war against God’ (Moharebeh), a criminal offense in Iran. His sentence is considered final and will be carried out as part of a broader crackdown on anti-regime demonstrators.

Government Crackdown and International Response

Iran’s judiciary has signaled plans for swift trials and executions of antigovernment protesters, defying international warnings. The US State Department has expressed concern over the potential execution of Soltani, highlighting the severity of the crackdown on nationwide protests.

Public and Media Coverage

• Multiple outlets, including CNN, Fox News, CBC, and IranWire, have reported on Soltani’s case, emphasizing the risks faced by protesters.
• Reports indicate that Soltani may be executed as early as the next day, with family members confirming the imminent threat.
• Human rights organizations have raised alarms over the potential for mass executions amid the ongoing unrest.

For more updates on the situation, refer to the live coverage and official reports.

來源：https://edition.cnn.com/2026/01/14/middleeast/erfan-soltani-iranian-protester-execution-fears-intl