By Trendsetter Tribune 
Iran accelerates trials for protest detainees, with death sentences looming as US President Trump threatens strong action. Funerals for security forces turn into pro-government rallies.
Iran has intensified its crackdown on nationwide protests, fast-tracking trials and issuing death sentences for demonstrators, following weeks of unrest. The escalation comes amid US President Donald Trump’s warning of “very strong action” if Iran executes protesters, raising tensions internationally.
What happened
On Wednesday, Iranian authorities announced that trials for protest detainees would be expedited, with some proceedings to be held publicly. Judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei visited a Tehran prison, personally interrogating a detainee accused of carrying Molotov cocktails to a park, in footage broadcast on state television.
Meanwhile, in Tehran, funerals were held for over 100 members of security forces and other “martyrs” killed during the protests. State media reported that the ceremonies drew large pro-government crowds.
Iranian authorities continue to arrest protesters, with state media confirming hundreds detained and at least one foreign national held on espionage charges. The US State Department noted that 26-year-old Erfan Soltani has been sentenced to death, marking him as the first protester to face capital punishment in the current wave of unrest.
Background: The protests
The demonstrations began as economic protests but have evolved into one of the biggest challenges to Iran’s clerical leadership since 1979. Despite a zero-tolerance approach by authorities, citizens have continued to protest across the country.
Rights groups report hundreds of deaths, with Amnesty International and Norway-based Iran Human Rights highlighting that many more are likely unreported due to ongoing internet blackouts. NetBlocks reported that connectivity in Iran has been restricted for 132 hours as of Wednesday.
Analysis: Implications of the crackdown
The fast-tracking of trials and sentencing reflects the Iranian government’s intent to suppress dissent swiftly and visibly. Observers warn that these actions risk escalating both domestic unrest and international condemnation.
President Trump’s repeated warnings of US intervention, including military options, have drawn criticism from Tehran, which called the statements a “pretext for military intervention.” The situation illustrates growing tensions between Iran and the United States amid an already volatile domestic crisis.
Conclusion
Iran’s crackdown on protesters continues to intensify, with expedited trials, looming death sentences, and funerals for security personnel fueling public attention. International eyes remain focused on Tehran as human rights groups urge restraint and warn of the deepening humanitarian crisis.