Iranian state television has made a chilling threat against US President Donald Trump following his remarks encouraging opposition to the regime in Iran. A news broadcast depicted an image of Trump with a bloody ear, accompanied by a message stating, “This time, the bullet won’t miss.”
Trump, speaking at the White House, claimed that reliable sources informed him that planned executions in Iran had ceased, despite reports of government officials in Tehran openly discussing crackdowns on protestors, including hangings.
The president’s statements, lacking specifics, followed his previous encouragement for Iranians to continue protesting against the government, assuring them that assistance was forthcoming. He stated, “We’ve been told that the killing in Iran is stopping – it’s stopped – it’s stopping. And there’s no plan for executions, or an execution, or executions – so I’ve been told that on good authority.”
Activists reported that between 2,500 and 3,000 individuals have been killed since protests began in Iran over two weeks ago. Iran’s justice chief urged swift action to punish over 18,000 detainees through rapid trials and executions, emphasizing the need for immediate responses to maintain effectiveness.
Families have expressed anguish over the swift sentencing and execution of their loved ones, such as Erfan Soltani, a 26-year-old from Fardis near Tehran who was scheduled for hanging. Erfan was arrested during anti-government demonstrations and charged with “waging war against God,” a capital offense in Iran.
Furthermore, due to security concerns, Britain has closed its embassy in Iran and recalled non-essential diplomats. British citizens have been advised against traveling to Iran, with the Foreign Office updating its travel guidance to reflect the closure of the embassy and the change in consular services.