Rights group says execution of Iran protester postponed, warns his life still at risk

The execution of an Iranian man arrested during a wave of protests, which NGOs and Washington had warned risked taking place on Wednesday, has not been implemented and has been postponed, a rights group says, while warning his life is still in danger.

The execution of Erfan Soltani, 26, had been scheduled for Wednesday but was postponed, says the Norway-based Hengaw rights group, citing relatives, while adding there are “serious and ongoing concerns” regarding his right to life.

US President Donald Trump, who had warned of military action against Tehran over its crackdown on the protests, earlier said he had been told on “good authority” that “there’s no plan for executions,” without providing further details.

Just spoken to relatives of Erfan Soltani, the 26yr old protestor, due to be executed today in Iran. They told us the execution has been postponed. pic.twitter.com/poa2UiTWtA

— Paraic O'Brien (@paraicobrien) January 14, 2026