Cyprus Times

Erfan Soltani Alive and Well, Family Confirms After Fears of Execution

Published January 18, 2026, 17:11
Erfan Soltani Alive and Well, Family Confirms After Fears of Execution

The Hengaw Organization for Human Rights has announced that Erfan Soltani, the 26-year-old who has become a symbol of recent protests in Iran, is alive and in stable condition. The announcement comes after days of anxiety and rumors about his imminent execution, as well as denials from authorities that a death sentence had been issued against him. His family was granted a visit at the prison on Sunday, January 18, 2026, confirming the news. Soltani was arrested on January 8, 2026, during protests in Karaj. A few days later, his family was informed to visit the prison for a “final visit,” which was interpreted as a prelude to execution. The failure to carry out the execution and subsequent denials by the authorities had caused great concern. The Hengaw Organization for Human Rights is a non-governmental organization of Kurdish origin, operating in the documentation of human rights violations in Iran, particularly in Kurdish regions. It operates in a restricted environment with limited access for international organizations and gathers information through local networks and activists. The case of Erfan Soltani has attracted international attention as one of many examples of the suppression of protests and the harsh punishment of political dissidents in Iran. The confirmation that he is alive is a relief, but his situation remains uncertain and monitoring his case is essential.