Iran’s chief prosecutor refuted U.S. President Donald Trump’s assertions that he stopped the hangings of 800 detained protesters in the country, labeling the claims as “completely false.” The death toll from the widespread protests has now climbed to a minimum of 5,032, according to activists.
Concerns persist as activists struggle to verify information due to a prolonged internet blackout, marking the longest in Iran’s history, now surpassing two weeks. Meanwhile, tensions escalate between the U.S. and Iran as an American aircraft carrier group moves closer to the Middle East, described by Trump as an “armada” in remarks to journalists on Thursday.
Despite repeated warnings to Tehran, Trump has so far refrained from military strikes, with mass prisoner executions standing as one of his red lines for potential military action. Analysts suggest that the ongoing military buildup could pave the way for such strikes, although Trump seems to have backtracked on his earlier stance, likely due to pressure from regional leaders.
Iran’s top prosecutor, Mohammad Movahedi, dismissed Trump’s claims about halting the executions as baseless. The judiciary officials have labeled some detainees as “mohareb,” meaning “enemies of God,” a charge punishable by death. Movahedi clarified that no decision had been made by the judiciary to execute such a large number of people.
At a special session on Iran at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, concerns were raised about contradictory statements from Iranian authorities regarding potential executions of protesters. The UN high commissioner for human rights noted that Iran remains among the top countries in terms of executions, with a reported 50% increase in executions last year compared to 2024.
In Tehran, the Friday prayer leader Mohammad Javad Haji Ali Akbari launched insults at Trump, calling him a “yellow-faced, yellow-haired, and disgraced man.” He warned that any harm caused by the U.S. would result in Iranian forces targeting American interests and bases in the region.
The latest figures from the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency indicate that 4,716 of the dead were protesters, while others included government affiliates, children, and non-protesting civilians. The agency also reported over 27,600 detentions in a widespread arrest campaign by Iranian authorities.
The American military has intensified its presence in the Middle East by deploying more assets, including the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and accompanying warships. Trump confirmed the move, stating that the fleet was being positioned near Iran as a precautionary measure.
Trump referenced past negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program and hinted at potential military action if a deal was not reached. He emphasized the importance of diplomacy but warned of severe consequences if Iran failed to cooperate.
The exchange of threats and military posturing continues between the U.S. and Iran, with uncertainties looming over the situation as both sides maintain their positions.