Trump says executions halted in Iran, warns against resumption

President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that according to information he has received, executions in Iran have been halted and there are currently no plans for further capital punishment related to the protest movement. Speaking at a White House event, Trump stated, “We have been informed that executions in Iran have stopped. There is currently no execution plan or death penalty. If such a thing happens, we would all be saddened.”

Call for Investigation into Protestor Deaths

The U.S. president also indicated that allegations of protestors being killed would be investigated by relevant authorities. His comments come amid ongoing unrest in Iran, which began on December 28 over economic grievances and currency depreciation, and has since spread nationwide. While Iranian officials have not released official casualty figures, the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reported on January 14 that the death toll had reached 2,550, including 147 security personnel.

Context of U.S.-Iran Tensions and Internal Crackdown

Trump’s remarks reflect continued U.S. scrutiny of Iran’s domestic crackdown and follow previous warnings from Washington about potential consequences if executions of protestors proceed. The statement appears aimed at both acknowledging a reported de-escalation and maintaining pressure on Tehran. The situation remains fluid, with Iran still under a near-total internet blackout and international concerns persisting over human rights conditions and the regime’s response to dissent.

Broader Diplomatic Implications

By publicly highlighting the reported halt in executions, the Trump administration is signaling attentiveness to developments inside Iran while keeping the issue on the global agenda. The statement also serves to reinforce the U.S. posture of supporting protestors and monitoring Tehran’s actions, even as military options regarding Iran remain under review in Washington.