Donald Trump says Iran cancelled the planned hanging of over 800 people as protests spread nationwide, with the US warning that all options remain on the table.
US President Donald Trump speaks during a public address in Washington. (Photo: X/@WhiteHouse)
US President Donald Trump on Friday said the Iranian government had halted the planned execution of more than 800 people, a move he said he “greatly respects”, as tensions continue to rise over Tehran’s handling of nationwide protests.
Speaking to reporters on the South Lawn of the White House, Trump said Iran had pulled back at the last moment.
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“Iran cancelled the hanging of over 800 people. They were going to hang over 800 people yesterday, and I greatly respect the fact that they cancelled them.”
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The remarks come amid growing international concern over Iran’s crackdown on demonstrations that erupted against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Trump’s comments follow days of sharp warnings from Washington. Earlier this week, the US President had threatened possible intervention but later said that the killing of protesters appeared to have stopped. On Wednesday, he said the US would “watch and see” before taking any military action.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the administration remains on alert.
“The President and his team have communicated to the Iranian regime that if the killing continues, there will be grave consequences. The President understands today that 800 executions that were scheduled and supposed to take place yesterday were halted. The President and his team are closely monitoring this situation, and all options remain on the table for the President.”
The unrest in Iran began on December 28 at Tehran’s Grand Bazaar, triggered by the Iranian rial’s sharp fall to record lows. Protests quickly spread across the country.
The currency slid after months of strain on daily life. Long power cuts, shrinking job opportunities, water shortages, and runaway prices had already pushed households to the edge.
What began as protests over the economy has since widened into open anger; not just about money, but about leadership and the direction of the country.
Amid the deteriorating security situation, the Indian government has advised its citizens in Iran to leave the country. New Delhi said it is closely tracking developments and remains “committed to doing whatever is necessary” for the safety of Indian nationals.
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