Iran Protests Escalate With Reported Imminent Execution
U.S. pressure intensifies, raising trade risks for partners such as Brazil.
Overview
- Nationwide unrest that began on December 28 over soaring prices and a currency collapse has widened into anti-government demonstrations facing lethal crackdowns and internet restrictions.
- Rights groups report a rising toll, with NGOs citing at least 600 deaths and HRANA claiming 2,003 people killed and 16,784 detained since the protests began.
- Monitoring group Hengaw says 26-year-old Erfan Soltani faces hanging, which would mark the first execution tied to the current demonstrations.
- President Donald Trump threatened intervention and announced a proposed 25% tariff on any country doing business with Iran, intensifying pressure on Tehran.
- Brazil issued an official note lamenting the deaths and emphasizing Iranian sovereignty, flagged potential impacts on nearly US$3 billion in 2025 trade, and reported no Brazilian casualties.