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Iranian Protester Erfan Soltani Reported Safe Amid Execution Fears

KVIA•Sunday, January 18, 2026 at 4:00 PM•CNN Newsource

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Erfan Soltani, a 26-year-old Iranian protester, is reported to be in good health and has met with family members, alleviating fears of his imminent execution. His family received confirmation from a human rights group that Soltani, arrested during anti-government protests in December, is alive. Although there were concerns about potential execution due to his charges, Iran's judiciary clarified that he has not been sentenced to death. The situation remains tense, as Iranian officials warn that some protesters may still face severe penalties, including execution, under Islamic law for actions deemed as 'waging war against God.' The ongoing unrest has led to over 24,000 arrests since the protests began.

Key Details: • Erfan Soltani was arrested on January 10 for anti-government activities. • Over 24,000 individuals have been arrested in Iran since the protests started. • Iran's judiciary warns that some protesters could still face execution. • Family members are actively seeking support for Soltani's release.

politics human-rights protests iran execution

People & Organizations

Donald TrumpIranAli KhameneiUS State DepartmentHengawAli SalehiErfan SoltaniSomayehAsghar JahangirIslamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting

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