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Detained Iranian Protester Erfan Soltani Reported in Good Health After Execution Fears
Detained Iranian protester Erfan Soltani is reported to be in good physical health and has been able to briefly meet with his family, easing immediate fears that he would be executed, according to relatives and a human rights organization.
A family member told CNN that news from Iran confirmed the 26-year-old is alive following intense concern earlier this week that authorities could move forward with an execution. The Norway-based human rights group Hengaw also confirmed the family meeting and said Soltani is in good physical condition.
Soltani was detained earlier this month for participating in anti-government demonstrations that erupted in late December, driven by public anger over Iran’s economic conditions. The protests have led to a sweeping crackdown by authorities, with more than 24,000 people reportedly arrested, according to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, a figure CNN has not independently verified.
Iran’s judiciary has confirmed Soltani was arrested on January 10 and charged with “assembly and collusion against the country’s internal security” and “propaganda activities” against the regime. State media reported that while he has not been sentenced to death, his case remains under judicial review.
Despite assurances from Donald Trump that executions had been halted, Iranian officials have continued to issue warnings. Judiciary spokesperson Asghar Jahangir said some actions linked to the protests could be classified as “moharebeh,” or waging war against God, a charge that carries the possibility of execution under Iranian law.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has blamed the unrest on foreign influence, accusing Trump of encouraging protesters. Iranian prosecutors have dismissed US claims about halted executions, saying cases are moving swiftly through the courts.
While Soltani’s reported health has brought temporary relief to his family, human rights groups warn that the broader risk facing protesters across Iran remains high.
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By: CNN Newsource
January 18, 2026
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