Tehran:
Iran does not intend to carry out executions of protesters, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said, firmly rejecting claims that demonstrators could face capital punishment.
In a special interview with Fox News, Araghchi stated that executions are not under consideration and dismissed questions about hanging or death sentences for protesters as unfounded.
“There is no plan to execute protesters,” Araghchi said.
“The issue of hanging or capital punishment is not even being discussed.”
Responding to repeated international concerns over Iran’s handling of protests, the foreign minister said such questions should not even be raised, arguing that Iran’s judicial process is being misrepresented by foreign media.
“These kinds of punishments are not something that should even be asked about,” he added, calling the allegations “exaggerated and politically motivated.”
Context of International Scrutiny
Araghchi’s remarks come amid heightened global scrutiny of Iran following waves of protests and growing Western criticism over human rights and judicial practices. Several international rights organizations and Western governments have previously accused Iran of using harsh punishments to suppress dissent.
However, the Iranian foreign minister insisted that Iran’s legal system operates within its own framework and denied that the state is pursuing extreme penalties against demonstrators.
“Iran is dealing with its internal issues according to its laws,” Araghchi told Fox News, adding that external pressure and media narratives are designed to damage Iran’s international standing.
Reaction and Significance
The comments are likely to be closely watched by Western governments, particularly the United States and European Union, which have repeatedly raised concerns over Iran’s treatment of protesters. Araghchi’s categorical denial appears aimed at easing diplomatic pressure and countering claims circulating in international media.
Fox News reported that the interview was conducted as part of broader discussions on Iran’s domestic situation, regional tensions, and Tehran’s relations with the West.
Source: Fox News (Exclusive Interview)
