Iranian protester Erfan Soltani released on bail, reports say

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete February 1, 2026 at 08:00 PM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

Erfan Soltani, a 26-year-old Iranian man arrested on January 8 in Fardis during anti-government protests, has been released on bail. Initial reports suggested Soltani, a clothes shop owner, had been sentenced to death, prompting international concern. However, Iran's judiciary denied the death sentence, stating he faced security-related charges with potential prison terms. Soltani's lawyer confirmed his release on Saturday after a bail of approximately $12,600 was paid. While human rights groups report thousands killed during the unrest, Iranian authorities accuse protesters of attacking police and public facilities.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Abbas Araghchi 30% BBC Persian 30% AFP 40% Isna 40% Human Rights Activists News Agency 40% Iran Human Rights (IHR) 50% Tehran 50% Amir Mousakhani 50% Fardis ×260% Hengaw Organization for Human Rights ×370% Iran ×380% Erfan Soltani ×890%

Keywords

iranian protests 90% erfan soltani 80% release on bail 70% death sentence 60% anti-government protests 50% iranian judiciary 50% human rights 50% security-related charges 40%