Iran is reportedly preparing for the imminent execution of 26-year-old protester Erfan Soltani, arrested amidst widespread anti-government demonstrations that have seen a significant death toll. Soltani, a shopkeeper, was reportedly sentenced to death for 'waging war against God' after being detained on January 8, 2026, in connection with protests near Tehran. This development has sparked international condemnation and a stern warning from former U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump has publicly stated that the U.S. "will take very strong action" if Iran proceeds with the executions. He also posted a message on Truth Social, encouraging "Iranian Patriots" to "KEEP PROTESTING - TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!!" and assured them that "HELP IS ON ITS WAY". This echoes similar statements made by Trump during earlier Iranian protests in 2020 when death sentences for other protesters were upheld. The current protests, fueled by economic hardship, have escalated into a broader anti-regime rebellion, with chants against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Activist groups report that the death toll from the crackdown has surpassed 2,500, with over 18,000 arrests. Iran's UN mission has dismissed Trump's warnings as an attempt to incite violence and destabilize the government, threatening the country's sovereignty. International bodies and several Western countries have also expressed deep concern and called for restraint, highlighting Iran's extensive use of the death penalty.