Politis

Trump Thanks Iran for Cancelling 'All Scheduled Executions' of Protesters

Published January 16, 2026, 21:07
Trump Thanks Iran for Cancelling 'All Scheduled Executions' of Protesters

Donald Trump “thanked” the Iranian government for cancelling “all scheduled executions by hanging” of protesters, after threatening Tehran with “serious consequences” if the crackdown on demonstrations continued. Trump stated that the cancellation of the executions, initially numbering over 800, had a “big impact.” According to the NGO Iran Human Rights (IHR), at least 1,500 people sentenced to death were executed in Iran in 2023, the highest annual number in the last 35 years. The Iranian decision to halt the executions appears to have been influenced by Trump’s warnings. Trump stated that he did not need to be persuaded by other leaders to refrain from military action against Iran, but made the decision on his own. This contrasts with reports that officials from Arab countries and Israel advised him against launching strikes. This move is seen as an attempt to de-escalate tensions in the region, following a period of increased suppression of protests in Iran. However, the situation remains fragile and requires continued monitoring.