Young protester faces execution as regime intensifies crackdown
January 14, 2026: Iran’s popular uprising has entered its 18th day, taking on the scale of a revolution as the Khamenei-led regime intensifies its crackdown on protesters. Human rights groups report that more than 2,000 people have been killed in clashes with security forces, while over 10,000 have been detained amid escalating violence. The situation has drawn international attention, with former US President Donald Trump reportedly threatening intervention as tensions continue to rise.
Amid the unrest, fears are mounting over the possible execution of 26-year-old Irfan Sultani, who could become the first protester to be hanged in connection with the current demonstrations. A shopkeeper from Fardis in central Iran, Sultani was arrested on January 8 for participating in anti-government protests. According to reports, he was swiftly tried and sentenced to death after being convicted of moharebeh—waging war against God—allegedly for chanting slogans demanding freedom.
Sultani’s family has expressed shock and distress, saying he was not politically active and had joined protests out of frustration with the country’s worsening conditions. Human rights organisations claim he was denied basic legal protections, including access to a lawyer and a fair trial. Activists warn that authorities may carry out a public execution to intimidate protesters, as appeals from rights groups intensify over what they describe as a grave miscarriage of justice.