Is Iran backing down? Trump says crackdown is easing as Tehran denies executions
Donald Trump. Picture: David Hume Kennerly/Getty Images
U.S. President Donald Trump said he believes Iran’s violent crackdown on nationwide protests is easing, signaling a potential pause in escalating tensions even as Tehran continues to deny reports of planned executions. The remarks come amid weeks of deadly unrest, international condemnation, and heightened fears of direct U.S. military involvement in the Middle East.
Speaking at the White House on Wednesday, Trump said he had been told by what he described as “very important sources” that killings linked to Iran’s security crackdown were subsiding. He added that he did not believe there was currently a plan for large-scale executions, adopting a wait-and-see stance after earlier warnings of possible intervention.
Iran Denies Death Sentence for Protester After Global Outcry
Iranian state media moved quickly to counter execution reports, stating that a 26-year-old man arrested during protests in Karaj would not face the death penalty. The denial followed claims by the rights group Hengaw that the man, identified as Erfan Soltani, was scheduled for execution.
According to Iranian media, Soltani has been charged with colluding against internal security and spreading propaganda against the regime, offenses that do not carry the death penalty under Iranian law if upheld in court. Hengaw later said that an earlier execution order had been postponed, easing immediate fears but doing little to calm broader concerns over Iran’s judicial process.
Protests Appear to Slow After Weeks of Bloodshed
The unrest, which began in late December over soaring prices and economic hardship, quickly escalated into one of the most serious challenges to Iran’s clerical leadership since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Human rights group HRANA says it has verified the deaths of 2,435 protesters and 153 government-affiliated individuals, a toll far exceeding previous uprisings.
Reuters sources inside Iran say protests have largely abated since Monday, though information remains limited due to a week-long internet blackout imposed by authorities.
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Trump Still Keeps Military Option on the Table
Despite his more measured tone, Trump did not rule out U.S. military action, saying Washington would continue to monitor developments closely. Earlier this week, tensions spiked after Iran warned neighboring countries that U.S. bases could be targeted if America intervened.
In response, the United States began withdrawing some personnel from regional bases, while Qatar confirmed drawdowns at Al Udeid Air Base, the largest U.S. military installation in the Middle East.
Oil Prices Fall as Markets React to Trump’s Remarks
Trump’s comments had immediate global economic impact. Oil prices retreated from multi-month highs, while gold eased from a record peak, reflecting investor hopes that the crisis might not escalate into direct military conflict.
Markets have been on edge amid fears that instability in Iran, a major regional power, could disrupt global energy supplies.
Iran Blames Foreign Enemies as Diplomacy Continues
Iranian officials insist the protests were hijacked by foreign adversaries, claiming that what began as economic demonstrations turned into violent unrest involving attacks on security forces and public infrastructure.
Meanwhile, diplomatic channels remain active. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to discuss regional stability, signaling quiet efforts to prevent further escalation.
FAQ
What did Trump say about Iran’s protest crackdown?
Trump said he has been told killings linked to Iran’s crackdown are easing and that there is no current plan for mass executions.
Is Iran executing protesters?
Iranian state media denies plans for executions and says a recently reported death sentence against a protester does not apply under current charges.
Why are there protests in Iran?
The protests began over severe economic conditions, including rising prices, and expanded into broader opposition to the government.
How many people have died in the Iran protests?
Human rights group HRANA reports over 2,400 protesters killed, along with more than 150 government-affiliated individuals.
Could the U.S. take military action against Iran?
Trump has not ruled out military action but says the U.S. is monitoring the situation before making any decisions.
Why did oil prices fall after Trump’s comments?
Markets reacted to the perception that tensions might ease, reducing fears of supply disruptions in the Middle East.
Are protests still ongoing in Iran?
Reports suggest protests have slowed, though information is limited due to internet restrictions inside the country.