A 26-year-old protester will be executed in Iran today; his family was given 10 minutes for a final meeting

A 26-year-old protester is scheduled to be executed in Iran today. The protester’s name is Irfan Soltani. He was arrested during protests against Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Soltani’s family alleges that they were neither informed of his arrest nor given any information about the court dates. The family was only told that Irfan Soltani had been sentenced to death by the court. They were informed that they would be allowed to meet him only once, for a limited time of 10 minutes.

What were the charges against Irfan Soltani?

According to reports, Irfan Soltani was detained on January 8 during anti-government protests in Iran. He was subsequently brought before a court. He was charged with “Moharebeh,” meaning “enmity against God.” The court ordered his execution by hanging on January 14. The Iranian government had also warned protesters of severe consequences. It is believed that Irfan Soltani’s execution is intended to set an example, instilling fear of the authorities in other protesters.

Family warned to remain silent

Iranian authorities have warned Soltani’s family not to speak to anyone. They have been threatened that if they do not comply, other family members will be arrested. The fact that Soltani is being executed within a week of his arrest has heightened international concerns about Iran. Several human rights organizations have condemned this as a move to suppress dissent. They argue that such executions, carried out without due legal process, are being used to crush opposition.

How did the protests in Iran begin?

The protests in Iran began with demonstrations by merchants against record inflation and the sharp devaluation of the Iranian currency. The protests quickly spread throughout the country. Reports of protests have emerged from 280 locations so far. Reports indicate that more than 2,500 protesters have been killed in actions by the Iranian armed forces, while over 20,000 people have been arrested.