Erfan Sultani, a 26-year-old resident of Fardis near Tehran, is facing the death penalty through hanging following his arrest amid a series of anti-government protests in Iran. He was apprehended on January 8 during the ongoing demonstrations that have been shaking Iran since late December 2025. Erfan was accused of moharebeh, which translates to “waging war against God” and is a serious offense in Iranian law commonly used against individuals perceived as threats to the government.
His family endured days of uncertainty regarding his whereabouts, only to be notified that he had been condemned to death with a mere 10-minute farewell opportunity. Concerns have been raised by human rights organizations regarding the expedited nature of the legal proceedings, which have been criticized for lacking proper due process.
Reports suggest that Erfan may have been deprived of legal representation, with his designated lawyer allegedly blocked from accessing his case details. The scheduled date for his execution is today, January 14, intensifying the emotional distress on Erfan and his family as the impending tragedy looms closer.
Criminal psychologist Alex Iszatt explained to the Mirror that the legal system is structured by prosecutors to inflict maximum emotional distress and fear on the detainees and their loved ones. The abrupt announcement of impending death after a flawed legal process triggers severe psychological trauma, leaving individuals in a state of extreme anxiety and detachment.
The enforced brief farewell calls, closely monitored and scripted, heighten the trauma for Erfan and his family, depriving them of genuine moments to bid farewell. These controlled interactions often become lasting memories of forced composure or visible distress, tormenting family members with endless replays in their minds.
The suddenness of the verdict and the lack of control over the situation have exacerbated the anguish for Erfan’s family, serving as a psychological tactic by the state to assert dominance and instill fear among dissenters. The impending execution of Erfan has sparked widespread condemnation globally, with rights organizations denouncing the exploitation of the justice system to quash opposition in Iran.
US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Iran, threatening severe repercussions if the country proceeds with the execution of protestors. The unrest, initially triggered by economic grievances, has evolved into widespread anti-government protests demanding a change in leadership. Despite signs of protest slowing down, the internet blackout persists, and several European nations have lodged formal protests against the violent suppression of demonstrators in Iran.