Irfan Soltani, a 26-year-old resident of Fardis, near Karaj, west of Tehran, is reportedly facing imminent execution in Iran. This case marks what is believed to be the first death sentence linked to the ongoing mass protests against the government of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Soltani was arrested on January 8, 2026, for his alleged involvement in demonstrations in Karaj.
Swift Judicial Process Draws Criticism
Human rights organizations and sources close to Soltani’s family report an exceptionally rapid judicial process. He was sentenced to death within two days of his arrest, allegedly without access to legal counsel or a fair trial. On January 11, 2026, Soltani’s family was informed that his execution would take place on January 14, 2026, and they were granted a brief ten-minute final visit.
The primary accusation against Soltani involves his participation in the protests, with some reports further alleging he was charged with “waging war against God,” an offense punishable by death in Iran. His family maintains that Soltani was not a prominent political activist but rather a young individual expressing discontent with the prevailing conditions in the country.
International Reactions and Widespread Unrest
The potential execution of Irfan Soltani has attracted significant international condemnation. Human rights bodies have labeled the proceedings as non-transparent and a violation of international legal standards. Former US President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to Iran, indicating that the United States would take “very strict action” if the execution proceeds, and assured that aid for protesters is “on its way.”
The protests across Iran began on December 28, 2025, sparked by economic grievances such as inflation, the devaluation of the Iranian rial, and soaring prices of essential goods. These demonstrations, initially in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar, quickly escalated into a nationwide movement with widespread anti-government slogans, marking them as the largest protests in decades. According to human rights organizations including Iran Human Rights (IHRNGO), Hengaw Organization, and Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), the unrest has resulted in over 2,500 fatalities, with some reports citing more than 2,000 deaths, including children. Thousands have been arrested, and internet and calling services have been largely suspended across the country.
