Erfan Sultani, a 26-year-old resident of Fardis near Tehran, is facing the death penalty through hanging following his arrest during the recent anti-government protests in Iran. He was swiftly convicted of moharebeh, a charge synonymous with “waging war against God” in Iranian law, often used against individuals perceived as threats to the state.
Upon Erfan’s detention on January 8 amidst the ongoing demonstrations that began in late December 2025, his family endured days of uncertainty before learning about his death sentence, with only a brief 10-minute farewell permitted. Concerns have been raised by human rights groups regarding the speed of the legal proceedings, criticized for lacking proper due process.
Reports suggest that Erfan may have been denied access to legal representation, as his lawyer was allegedly blocked from reviewing his case file. The scheduled date for his execution is today, January 14, adding immense psychological distress to Erfan and his loved ones as the impending deadline looms closer.
Criminal psychologist Alex Iszatt explained to the Mirror that the legal system appears designed to inflict maximum harm and fear on the detained individuals and their families. The abruptness of being informed about imminent death following an unjust legal process can trigger severe psychological trauma, leaving no room for gradual emotional adjustment.
The enforced brief farewell, often controlled and scripted, exacerbates the trauma for Erfan and his family, depriving them of genuine final moments. The monitored interactions become haunting memories for the family, intensifying their emotional turmoil and sense of powerlessness in the face of state actions.
The impending execution of Erfan has sparked widespread outrage globally, with rights organizations condemning the misuse of the justice system to quash dissent. US President Donald Trump has issued a warning to Iran against executing protestors, amidst escalating tensions and a significant death toll from the ongoing crackdown on dissent.
Originally sparked by economic grievances, the protests have evolved into calls for political reform and an end to the current leadership. While the protests appear to be subsiding, the internet blackout and international condemnation signal growing concerns over the violent suppression of dissent in Iran.