Judiciary Signals Potential Executions Amidst Rising Death Toll

Recent protests in Iran have resulted in over 5,000 fatalities, including approximately 500 security personnel, according to a regional Iranian official. This figure includes claims that “terrorists and armed rioters” are to blame for the deaths of “innocent Iranians.”

Nationwide protests began on December 28, driven by economic struggles, and escalated within two weeks into major calls for the end of clerical rule—marking the most severe unrest Iran has faced since the 1979 Islamic revolution.

U.S. President Donald Trump has issued warnings of potential intervention if the killings of protesters continue. In a recent social media update, he expressed gratitude to Iranian leaders for halting plans to execute 800 people.

In response, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei labeled Trump a “criminal” due to the casualties resulting from his support of the protests. Khamenei acknowledged “several thousand deaths” which he attributed to “terrorists and rioters” supported by the U.S. and Israel.

The Iranian judiciary has hinted that executions may still be carried out. A spokesperson stated that certain actions have been classified as Mohareb—an Islamic term for waging war against God, which is punishable by death in Iran.

Witness testimonies reveal direct assaults by riot police on protesters, primarily young men and women. Visual evidence on social media supports claims of violent crackdowns throughout the country.

Major clashes have been reported in Iranian Kurdish regions, which have a history of violent separatist activity. Some eyewitnesses have noted armed individuals impersonating protesters, exacerbating the violence. Internet blackouts have complicated the flow of information, although some access was briefly restored recently.