Heartbroken families are sharing stories of their loved ones facing rapid executions as Iran intensifies its severe crackdown on protesters.
Erfan Soltani, a 26-year-old owner of a clothing store, was apprehended at his residence for allegedly participating in anti-government protests. He is set to have just a brief ten-minute meeting with his family before facing hanging on Wednesday.
Activists reported that between 2,000 and 3,000 individuals have been killed since the protests began a little over two weeks ago. Iranians were able to make international calls again as authorities enforced a harsh ‘blackout’ by cutting off telecommunications and access.
Iranian state television has officially acknowledged the significant death toll, stating that the country has witnessed numerous “martyrs.” A news anchor revealed that “armed and terrorist groups” were responsible for the deaths.
The UK’s Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper, announced plans for additional sanctions targeting Iran’s finance, energy, transport, and other vital sectors. This followed the summoning of the Iranian ambassador by the Foreign Office to address the country’s response to the recent demonstrations.
In a separate development, US President Donald Trump encouraged Iranians to continue protesting, vowing consequences for those responsible for violence against demonstrators. Trump declared the cancellation of all meetings with Iranian officials until the killings cease, assuring that help is forthcoming.