Tehran Prosecutor Ali Salehi has issued a warning to protesters involved in recent demonstrations, describing them as “terrorists” and threatening severe punishment. During a statement, Salehi emphasized Iran’s stance on addressing protests, stating that the authorities will adopt a “deterrent” approach toward those they classify as terrorists.
Salehi further indicated that protesters implicated in unrest could face the death penalty, asserting that such sentences serve as a punishment for what he described as rebellion against the state. His comments reflect the government’s ongoing efforts to portray the protests as illegal and threatening to national security.
The remarks come amid continued tensions within Iran, where public demonstrations have frequently been met with harsh rhetoric and, at times, force. Human rights organizations have criticized the Iranian authorities for their handling of protests, calling for restraint and fair treatment of detainees.
Legal and human rights experts have expressed concern over the potential for escalated crackdowns following Salehi’s statements. The situation remains closely watched both domestically and internationally, as Iran grapples with internal dissent and its response to mass protests.