Donald Trump says he has been told that âthe killing in Iran has stoppedâ following a violent crackdown on anti-government protests, though he has not ruled out US military action if executions resume.
Human rights groups report that more than 2,400 people have been killed since nationwide demonstrations erupted, initially sparked by Iranâs collapsing currency before evolving into a broader challenge to the clerical leadership.
Speaking at the White House, Trump said his administration had received assurances from âvery important sources on the other sideâ that there were no plans for further executions. He added that he hoped the information was accurate.
The comments came amid heightened regional tensions. The US and UK have reduced personnel at the Al-Udeid air base in Qatar, calling the move a precaution. Iran briefly closed its airspace overnight, prompting several airlines to reroute flights.
The UK has temporarily shut its embassy in Tehran, while Italy and Poland have urged their citizens to leave Iran. Germany has advised airlines to avoid Iranian airspace, and Lufthansa confirmed it would comply until further notice.
Concerns intensified after reports that Erfan Soltani, a 26-year-old arrested during protests, had been sentenced to death. Iranian state media later denied the claim, and officials said his execution had been postponed.
Iranâs Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejected reports of imminent executions and warned Trump against repeating past military actions, referencing US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites in June 2025.
Despite urging Iranians to continue protesting in a recent social media post, Trump has stopped short of endorsing regime change or backing an opposition leader, saying it is unclear whether any alternative figure would gain public support.
Iran has imposed a nationwide internet blackout, limiting independent reporting. The Human Rights Activists News Agency says it has verified 2,435 protester deaths so far, including 13 children, with hundreds more cases still under investigation.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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