Tehran , 15 January (H.S.): Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi assured the international community on Wednesday that no executions of protesters would occur “today or tomorrow,” directly responding to repeated threats of severe U.S. action issued by President Donald Trump.

This statement came during an exclusive interview with Fox News, where Araghchi described the recent unrest as commencing with 10 days of peaceful demonstrations over acute economic hardships, followed by three days of orchestrated violence blamed on Israel, after which authorities claim to have restored calm.

He emphasized confidence in the absence of any immediate hanging plans, amid reports that the scheduled execution of 26-year-old protester Erfan Soltani had been postponed, sparing the Karaj resident arrested last week without access to legal counsel.

Escalating Crisis and Casualty Toll

The protests, which erupted in late December 2025, represent the most significant challenge to Iran’s theocratic regime since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, initially sparked by the collapse of the rial, rampant inflation, and soaring living costs.

Human rights organizations, including the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), report a staggering death toll exceeding 2,500, with over 2,400 confirmed as protesters killed in a brutal crackdown involving security forces firing on crowds, even those fleeing.

Estimates vary widely due to a nationwide internet blackout imposed since early January, but activists cite figures up to 6,000 or more, including minors, with at least 16,000 arrests documented.

G7 nations expressed deep alarm on Wednesday, warning of additional sanctions should the violence persist.

Trump’s Unyielding Stance

President Trump has intensified rhetoric since the protests began, urging Iranians to “keep protesting” and declaring “help is on the way” while announcing 25% tariffs on nations trading with Iran, particularly targeting China.

In interviews with CBS and others on Tuesday, he vowed “very strong action” – potentially military – if Tehran proceeded with hangings, stating the U.S. would “watch it and see” after claims that killings had halted.

Amid U.S. advisories for Americans to flee Iran and reports of opposition contacts, Trump’s posture has drawn accusations from Tehran of fomenting destabilization. Iranian officials, including an anonymous senior figure, have urged U.S. allies in the region to restrain Washington from strikes.�

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar