DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iran’s Attorney General on Friday dismissed as “completely false” repeated claims by U.S. President Donald Trump that he had halted the execution of 800 protesters detained following recent demonstrations. Meanwhile, activists report at least 5,002 people have died in the Islamic Republic’s violent crackdown on protests across the country.
Activists fear the actual death toll is significantly higher, but a more than two-week-long internet blackout – the most comprehensive in Iran’s history – is hindering verification efforts. Tensions between Tehran and Washington remain high as a U.S. aircraft carrier group moves closer to the Middle East, a force Trump likened to an “ armada.”
Fiscal Denies Trump’s Claim
Trump has repeatedly stated that Iran stopped the execution of 800 detainees, without providing a source for the claim. On Friday, Iran’s Attorney General, Mohammad Movahedi, vehemently denied the President’s statements in remarks published by the Mizan news agency. “This claim is completely false; there is no such number, nor has the judiciary made such a decision,” Movahedi asserted.
Movahedi’s comments suggest Iran’s Foreign Ministry, headed by Abbas Araghchi, may have been the source of the figure provided to Trump. Araghchi has had direct communication with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and participated in multiple rounds of negotiations with him regarding Tehran’s nuclear program. “We have separation of powers, the responsibilities of each institution are clearly defined, and we do not receive instructions from foreign powers under any circumstances,” Movahedi stated.
Mohammad Javad Haji Ali Akbari, the Friday prayer leader in Tehran, also ridiculed Trump, describing him as a “yellow-faced, yellow-haired, and disgraced man” who is “like a dog that only barks.” He warned that any harm inflicted would result in Iran targeting all U.S. interests and bases in the region.
Rising Death Toll
The Human Rights Activists Agency, based in the United States, reports at least 4,716 protesters, 203 government affiliates, 43 children, and 40 uninvolved civilians have been killed. More than 26,800 people have been arrested in a widening crackdown. The group’s past reporting has proven accurate, relying on a network of on-the-ground activists to verify deaths.
The reported death toll exceeds any previous round of protests or unrest in the country in recent decades, recalling the chaos surrounding the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The Iranian government offered its first official count on Wednesday, reporting 3,117 deaths, claiming 2,427 were civilians and security forces, and the remainder “terrorists.” The government has historically underestimated or withheld information regarding deaths during unrest.
U.S. Naval Presence Increases
The U.S. military has moved additional military assets toward the Middle East, including the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and its associated warships from the South China Sea. A U.S. Navy official, speaking anonymously, stated the Lincoln strike group is currently in the Indian Ocean.
Trump stated the ships are being moved toward Iran “just in case” action is needed, adding, “We have a massive fleet heading in that direction and maybe we won’t have to use it.” Trump also referenced past conversations with Iranian officials regarding their nuclear program and threatened further military action that would make previous operations against Iranian enrichment sites “look insignificant.”
The UK Ministry of Defence stated its joint squadron of Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets with Qatar, Squadron 12, “has deployed to the Gulf with a defensive role in light of regional tensions.”
Iran Displays Drones, Threatens Israel
Iran marked “Guardian Day” on Friday, an annual event celebrating the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, which played a key role in suppressing the protests. State television broadcast a program featuring military drones, including models of the Shahid drone, which has been used by Russia in the war in Ukraine.
A masked individual identified as a security force member issued a threat to Israel in poorly pronounced Hebrew, stating, “We are closer to you than you think.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of executions in Iran?
According to Iran’s Attorney General, Mohammad Movahedi, claims by President Trump regarding the halting of 800 executions are “completely false.”
How many people have died in the protests?
Activists report at least 5,002 people have died in the crackdown on protests, while the Iranian government has reported 3,117 deaths.
What is the U.S. military doing in response to the situation?
The U.S. military has moved the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group toward the Middle East, stating it is “just in case” action is needed.
Given the escalating tensions and military movements, what impact might this have on regional stability?
