Iranian judiciary denies death sentence for detained activist Erfan Soltani

Iranian state media has reported that Erfan Soltani has not been sentenced to death, contradicting earlier media claims that the 26-year-old activist faced imminent execution.

Judicial authorities said Soltani was arrested during a demonstration but no death sentence has been issued against him. According to the court, Soltani was detained on January 8, 2026, on charges of “enmity against God” (moharebeh), an offense that can carry the death penalty if proven.

The judiciary stated that Soltani, who is currently being held at Karaj Central Prison, is instead charged with conspiracy against national internal security and engaging in propaganda activities, offenses punishable by imprisonment.

Earlier reports circulating in the media claimed that Soltani could be executed on January 14. Family members have said that a death sentence was allegedly issued against him within just two days of his arrest.