A 26-year-old Iranian man, Erfan Soltani, who was reportedly sentenced to death in connection with anti-government protests last month, has been released on bail. Soltani was arrested on January 8 in the city of Fardis, just west of Tehran, amid nationwide protests that triggered a deadly crackdown by Iranian authorities. Reports from the Norway-based Kurdish human rights group Hengaw indicated that officials informed Soltani's family of an imminent execution, which was denied by Iran's judiciary who claimed he faced only security-related charges.
His lawyer, Amir Mousakhani, confirmed that Soltani was released on bail after a sum of roughly $12,600 was paid. Hengaw, alongside Iranian media outlets, has reported on his release as he regained possession of his belongings, including his cellphone. The case drew international attention when reports surfaced about his potential execution, leading to concerns over the Iranian government’s treatment of protesters. Despite denials from Iranian authorities regarding execution plans, the country has seen significant unrest, resulting in thousands of deaths since the beginning of protests in late December.
His lawyer, Amir Mousakhani, confirmed that Soltani was released on bail after a sum of roughly $12,600 was paid. Hengaw, alongside Iranian media outlets, has reported on his release as he regained possession of his belongings, including his cellphone. The case drew international attention when reports surfaced about his potential execution, leading to concerns over the Iranian government’s treatment of protesters. Despite denials from Iranian authorities regarding execution plans, the country has seen significant unrest, resulting in thousands of deaths since the beginning of protests in late December.
