Washington: Former US President Donald Trump has made a major claim regarding Iran, signaling a significant shift in his earlier hardline stance. Trump stated that the Iranian government has halted the killing of anti-government protesters and stopped planned executions in the country.
Speaking to reporters at the White House on Wednesday, Trump said he had received information from “very reliable sources” that Iran has paused both executions and alleged killings linked to recent protests. “I’ve just been informed that the killings have stopped. The executions have stopped, and there will be no more executions,” Trump said, referring to reports that had sparked international concern over the past few days.
Trump’s remarks mark a notable change from his earlier rhetoric, in which he had openly threatened military action against Iran. Just a day earlier, he had urged Iranian protesters to continue their demonstrations, assuring them that help was on the way.
Relief in the Case of Irfan Sultani
Trump’s statement comes amid global concern over the fate of 26-year-old protester Irfan Sultani, who was arrested for participating in demonstrations and was reportedly facing execution. Late Wednesday night, a Norway-based human rights organization confirmed that Sultani’s execution has been postponed, providing temporary relief to activists and rights groups.
When asked about the source of his information, Trump declined to give specifics, saying only that it came from “very important people on the other side.” He added that the White House had received what he described as a “very positive statement” from Iran and said the situation would be closely monitored. “We’ll see how the process goes,” he remarked.
Iranian Foreign Minister Responds
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also addressed the issue, stating that no executions were scheduled for Wednesday or Thursday. In an interview with US broadcaster Fox News, Araghchi said, “I can tell you with certainty that there is no plan for any executions.”
While acknowledging that violence occurred during the protests, the Iranian foreign minister claimed it was instigated by Israel-backed elements. He further asserted that the situation in Iran has now stabilized and that peace has been restored.
The contrasting narratives from Washington and Tehran continue to draw international attention, as human rights groups and global leaders closely watch developments related to protests, executions, and political tensions in Iran.