Iran’s Judiciary Chief Calls for Swift Action Against Protesters Amid Ongoing Unrest

Iran’s judiciary chief, Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Eje’i, has called for rapid and harsh judicial measures against individuals arrested during the ongoing nationwide protests that began in late December 2025.

In a video clip circulated by state-affiliated media and widely shared online, Mohseni-Eje’i insisted that the public demands “deterrent sentences” and the “harshest punishments” without leniency. He reportedly remarked that swift action was essential for maintaining its impact, saying: “If we don’t do it now, it won’t have the same effect later.”

Opposition Response

The comments have drawn sharp criticism from opposition figures and activists in exile. Iranian dissident Sana Ebrahimi (@__Injaneb96) posted a rebuttal on January 15, declaring: “He lies. No one in Iran is demanding executions. The only demand is the end of the Islamic regime, and the killing has still not stopped.” Her post, which included the judiciary chief’s video, garnered more than 4,300 likes and 1,700 reposts.

Human Rights Concerns

Rights groups report severe crackdowns on the protests, with death toll estimates ranging from over 2,500 (Human Rights Activists News Agency) to more than 3,000 (exile organizations such as NCRI and Iran HRM). Thousands have been detained, raising fears of mass trials and executions under charges of moharebeh (“enmity against God”), which carries the death penalty.

International Reaction

Global attention has intensified. U.S. President Donald Trump previously warned of “very strong action” if executions proceed. Reports of an imminent execution of protester Erfan Soltani prompted international outcry, after which Iranian authorities reportedly postponed the sentence and denied certain death penalty claims. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated in a televised interview that there were no plans for hangings.

Current Situation

The protests, now in their third week, continue despite widespread internet restrictions and heavy security force deployments. Independent verification of public sentiment inside Iran remains impossible due to media blackouts and repression. Activists are urging international intervention to prevent further escalation.