Tehran Rejects Claims of Planned Hangings
Iran has firmly denied reports that it plans to hang anti-government protesters. The denial came from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi on Wednesday. He responded to mounting international concern over Iran’s response to widespread unrest.
Speaking to Fox News, Araqchi said there was no intention to carry out executions. He stressed that hanging was not under consideration. “There is no plan for hanging at all,” he said during the interview. He added that executions were “out of the question.”
The comments were made as Iran faces intense scrutiny. Protests have erupted across the country in recent months. Demonstrators are voicing anger over economic hardship, political restrictions, and governance issues.
Araqchi did not address past executions. He also did not comment on reports from rights groups. His remarks focused on denying future plans for mass hangings linked to protests.
Human rights organisations remain sceptical. The Norway-based Iran Human Rights Society says hangings are frequently used in Iranian prisons. The group has documented executions over several years. This history has raised doubts among observers.
Iranian officials insist the government is acting within the law. They argue that claims of mass executions are exaggerated. Tehran says it is responding to unrest to maintain public order.
Trump Issues Warning as US Monitors Situation
US President Donald Trump has issued a clear warning to Iran. In an interview with CBS News on Tuesday, he said the US would take “very strong action” if Iran began hanging protesters. Trump did not provide details about possible measures.
“If they hang them, you’re going to see some things,” Trump said. His comments triggered speculation about diplomatic or military consequences. The White House has not clarified the nature of the warning.
On Wednesday, Trump offered a more measured tone. He said he had been informed that killings linked to the crackdown were slowing down. He added that he believed there was no current plan for large-scale executions.
Trump said his administration is weighing options. The US is closely watching developments in Iran. Officials are assessing how to respond if the situation escalates.
Iran is experiencing its largest anti-government protests in years. The unrest has placed Tehran under growing international pressure. Western governments have repeatedly condemned the use of force against protesters.
Human Rights Groups Report High Death Toll and Arrests
Despite official denials, human rights groups report alarming figures. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, known as HRANA, has released updated data. According to HRANA, at least 2,403 protesters have been killed so far.
The group also reported the deaths of 147 government-affiliated individuals. These include members of security forces. HRANA said clashes have intensified in several regions.
Arrests have also increased sharply. HRANA said at least 18,137 people have been detained. Many detainees face uncertain legal proceedings. Families often report limited access to information.
Iranian authorities dispute these numbers. The government accuses rights groups of spreading misinformation. Officials say foreign-backed organisations are exaggerating the scale of violence.
Tehran blames foreign sanctions for economic struggles. Leaders say sanctions have worsened inflation and unemployment. The government also claims foreign enemies are interfering in Iran’s internal affairs.
Iran insists protests are being exploited by outside powers. Officials say security forces are acting to protect national stability. Critics argue peaceful demonstrators are being punished.
As protests continue, global attention remains focused on Iran. Statements from Tehran and Washington highlight deep tensions. The situation remains volatile, with the risk of further escalation.
