Iran Protests Explained: Executions, Trump’s Warning and What’s at Stake

Iran is facing its most serious internal crisis in years. Nationwide protests, a looming execution, and a rare warning from Donald Trump have turned a domestic crackdown into an international flashpoint. Here’s what you need to know.

What is happening in Iran right now?

Iran is witnessing widespread anti-regime protests that began in late December 2025 and have since spread across the country. The unrest, driven by economic hardship and political anger, has triggered a severe state crackdown.

How widespread are these protests?

According to human rights groups, demonstrations have taken place in over 280 cities across all 31 provinces. By the seventeenth day alone, 614 protest gatherings were recorded in 187 cities, underscoring the national scale of the uprising.

What has been the human cost so far?

The toll has been heavy. Rights organisations report over 2,403 protesters killed, including 12 children, alongside 147 deaths among security forces and government supporters. In addition, more than 18,434 people have been arrested during the crackdown.

Who is Erfan Soltani and why does his case matter?

Erfan Soltani, a 26-year-old shopkeeper from near Tehran, is set to become the first protester executed during this wave of unrest. Arrested earlier this month, he was reportedly convicted in a rapid process without legal counsel and sentenced to death on charges of “waging war against God.” His case has become a symbol of the regime’s hardening response.

What has Iran’s leadership said about executions?

Iran’s judiciary has openly pushed for speed. Chief Justice Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei called for swift trials and punishments of what officials label “rioters,” arguing that delays reduce the deterrent effect. Authorities reportedly informed Soltani’s family only minutes before his scheduled execution.

Why has Donald Trump weighed in?

US President Donald Trump issued a stark warning, saying the United States would take “very strong action” if Iran proceeds with executions of protesters. He linked US policy directly to the fate of detainees, elevating the crisis from domestic repression to an international issue.

Has Iran responded to Trump’s warning?

Iran’s Foreign Ministry has denied plans for executions, even as judicial officials signal the opposite. Tehran has also formally complained to the United Nations, accusing the US of interference and warning that American statements could inflame violence.

What are other global players saying?

While senior EU officials have condemned the crackdown and are discussing additional sanctions, G7 nations have urged restraint and warned Iran against executions. China, meanwhile, has backed Iran’s “stability” and opposed foreign interference, criticising US pressure tactics.

What role is Iran’s exiled crown prince playing?

Reza Pahlavi, Iran’s exiled crown prince, has urged protesters to persist, telling them “help is on the way.” He referenced Trump’s remarks and called on security forces to side with the people, promising accountability for regime violence.

Why does this moment matter?

This crisis marks a dangerous convergence of mass domestic unrest, judicial repression, and international brinkmanship. With executions looming and external pressure mounting, Iran’s stability—and its relations with the world—hang in the balance.

(yMedia and ANI are the content partners for this story)