US President Donald Trump delivered a clear warning to Iranian authorities on Tuesday. He stated that the United States would respond with strong action if Iran begins carrying out hangings as part of its crackdown on widespread protests.
Trump's Stern Message on Potential Executions
In an interview with CBS News, Trump addressed reports that hangings could start as early as Wednesday. "We will take very strong action if they do such a thing," the President declared firmly. He expressed particular concern about the possibility of mass killings, adding, "When they start killing thousands of people — and now you're telling me about hanging. We'll see how that's going to work out for them."
Comments During Michigan Visit
The interview occurred while Trump was visiting a manufacturing plant in Michigan. There, he delivered a speech focused on economic matters. During that address, he repeated a message he had previously shared on social media, assuring Iranian protesters that "help is on its way."
Trump acknowledged uncertainty about the actual death toll in Iran. "I hear numbers — look, one death is too much — but I hear much lower numbers, and then I hear much higher numbers," he told reporters.
Awaiting Briefing and Planning Response
Later, speaking to journalists aboard Air Force One en route to Washington, Trump revealed he was due to receive a detailed briefing on the Iranian situation. "The killing looks like it's significant, but we don't know yet for certain. I'll know within 20 minutes — and we'll act accordingly," he stated.
This warning aligns with Trump's earlier position. He has previously said the United States would intervene if protesters were killed. Human rights organizations argue this threshold has already been crossed.
Mounting Concerns Over Executions
International concerns are growing that Iran might use executions to suppress the ongoing protests. Tehran prosecutors have announced they will seek capital charges of "moharebeh" (waging war against God) for some detainees arrested during recent demonstrations.
Amnesty International expressed alarm, stating, "Concerns are mounting that authorities will once again resort to swift trials and arbitrary executions to crush and deter dissent."
Reported Death Toll and Specific Case
According to the Norway-based NGO Iran Human Rights (IHR), at least 734 people have been confirmed killed in the protests. The actual number is believed to be significantly higher.
IHR highlighted a specific concerning case. They reported that 26-year-old Erfan Soltani, arrested last week in Karaj (a satellite city of Tehran), has already received a death sentence. Family sources indicate his execution could occur as early as Wednesday.
The situation remains fluid, with the international community closely monitoring Iran's next moves and the US response.
