Trump Claims Iran Executions 'Stopped' Amid Ongoing Protests

Jan 15, 2026, 2:55 AM

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President Donald Trump claimed on Wednesday that he has been told "on good authority" that plans for executions in Iran have stopped, even as Iranian officials signaled that fast trials and executions are imminent for those detained during recent protests.

During a press event at the White House, Trump stated, "We've been told that the killing in Iran is stopping -- it's stopped -- it's stopping," while signing executive orders and legislation. However, he did not provide details on the sources of this information, describing them only as "very important sources on the other side." He expressed hope that the information was accurate but acknowledged uncertainty, saying, "Who knows?".

The president's comments come amid a backdrop of escalating violence in Iran, where the crackdown on protests has reportedly resulted in at least 2,586 deaths, according to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency. In response to the unrest, Trump has previously indicated that "help is on the way" for the Iranian people and that his administration would "act accordingly" to address the situation.

Despite Trump's optimistic assertions, Iranian officials have made it clear that they plan to expedite the judicial process for over 18,000 detainees, with judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei stating, "If we want to do something, we have to do it quickly." He emphasized the need for rapid trials and executions, suggesting that delays would diminish the impact of their actions.

The Iranian government has also threatened a "decisive response" if the US or Israel intervenes in the domestic unrest, further complicating the situation. In light of these threats, personnel at a key US military base in Qatar were advised to evacuate, reflecting heightened tensions in the region.

Trump's national security team, including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has been meeting to discuss potential responses, which range from diplomatic measures to military action. The president's vague statements have left many questioning the US strategy moving forward, particularly in light of Iran's aggressive stance against perceived foreign interference.

As the situation develops, the international community remains watchful, with activists warning that executions could occur soon. The Iranian regime's crackdown on dissent has drawn widespread condemnation, and the potential for further violence looms large as both sides prepare for possible escalation.

In summary, while Trump claims that executions in Iran have ceased, the reality on the ground suggests a different narrative, with Iranian officials poised to carry out swift justice against protesters. The US response remains uncertain, as the administration grapples with the complexities of the situation.

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