Protests in Iran Abate; Trump Adopts Wait-and-See Approach

News Desk

Washington/Tehran: US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that he had been informed the recent killings in Iran’s crackdown on protests were easing and indicated there was no current plan for large-scale executions. 

His comments followed Iranian officials’ denial that any death sentences were pending for protesters.

Iranian state media reported Thursday that 26-year-old Erfan Soltani, arrested during protests in the city of Karaj, would not face the death penalty. Soltani had previously been reported by rights group Hengaw as slated for execution on Wednesday. 

Iranian authorities said he was charged with colluding against “internal security” and propaganda against the regime, offenses that do not carry capital punishment under Iranian law if confirmed by a court.

Trump’s remarks helped ease global markets, with oil prices retreating from multi-month highs and gold prices easing from record levels. The president has repeatedly threatened intervention on behalf of Iranian protesters, who have faced a harsh crackdown since protests erupted on December 28.

While information from inside Iran remains limited due to a week-long internet blackout, Reuters sources reported that demonstrations appear to have abated since Monday.

Tensions escalated earlier this week, with Iran warning neighboring countries that it would strike US bases in the region if attacked, prompting the US to temporarily reduce personnel at some bases. 

Speaking at the White House, Trump did not rule out possible military action, but said the administration would “watch what the process is” before taking further steps.

Trump also commented on Iranian opposition figure Reza Pahlavi, describing him as “very nice,” but expressed uncertainty about Pahlavi’s ability to garner support within Iran. He added that “any regime can fail,” suggesting the potential for political change in Tehran.

In regional diplomatic developments, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Thursday to discuss ways to maintain security and stability, according to Saudi state media.

The protests in Iran, initially sparked by rising prices, have turned into the largest challenge to the clerical establishment since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Rights groups, including the US-based HRANA, report at least 2,435 protesters and 153 government-affiliated individuals killed during the unrest.

Iranian authorities have accused foreign actors of fomenting unrest and described the protests as increasingly violent, targeting security forces and public property. The Group of Seven countries condemned the crackdown and warned of potential sanctions if the repression continues.