Urgent Call to Action: Iran Faces Rising Death Sentences Amid Escalating Protests

On January 8, 2023, Erfan Soltani, a 26-year-old resident of Fardis, Iran, was arrested at his home. Just four days later, his family was notified that a death sentence had been issued and confirmed against him, as reported by the human rights organization Hengau. As of now, Soltani is held in QazlHisar prison in Karaj, amid fears that his family’s visit on Tuesday marks a final meeting before his execution scheduled for Wednesday. Human rights advocates have raised significant concerns over the fairness of the judicial process that led to Soltani’s sentencing. Reports indicate that he was denied access to his chosen lawyer and essential legal rights throughout the legal proceedings. Soltani's sister, a barrister, attempted to represent him and investigate his case; however, authorities blocked her access to his file, leaving the family unaware of the specific charges or the court's process. Human rights organizations are alarmed by what they describe as a potential establishment of field courts being used to expedite death sentences as a means to silence dissent. In light of the widespread protests against Iran's theocratic regime, the death of Soltani could mark the first execution linked to the recent upheaval, signaling a troubling shift in the Iranian government's approach to dissent. The atmosphere in Iran has been increasingly tense as officials have ramped up their rhetoric concerning the treatment of protesters. Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, Iran’s judiciary chief, suggested during a recent video address that trials and executions would be hastened for those detained during the nationwide protests. Activists report that the death toll from these protests has exceeded 2,572 individuals, the highest seen in decades, with fears that the number could be as high as 15,000 as the crackdown continues. This wave of violence against protesters has drawn international condemnation, with calls for intervention. U.S. President Donald Trump has warned Iranian leaders that he would take decisive action if executions occur. The situation remains dire, as information begins to trickle out from within Iran following a communication blackout imposed by the government during the protests. As the world watches the unfolding events in Iran, immediate action is urged from international bodies to halt any impending executions and prevent further loss of life in what is described as a systematic effort to quell dissent. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2