White House says Iran halted 800 planned executions amid diplomatic pressure

Friday 16 January 2026 - 07:30

By: Sahili Aya

White House says Iran halted 800 planned executions amid diplomatic pressure

The White House stated on Thursday that Iran has suspended approximately 800 executions of protesters that were reportedly scheduled for Wednesday, following intense diplomatic efforts by Gulf allies aimed at preventing a further escalation of tensions.

Speaking at a press briefing, White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said the Iranian authorities had stepped back from carrying out the executions after regional partners intervened and urged Washington to avoid military action. She added that the United States had warned Tehran of “serious consequences” should the crackdown on protests continue, stressing that “all options remain on the table.”

Earlier, the U.S. administration announced new economic sanctions targeting Iranian officials accused of orchestrating the repression, including Ali Larijani, head of Iran’s highest security body.

Since protests erupted on December 28, former U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly issued warnings to Tehran. On Wednesday, he claimed to have received information from “very important sources” indicating that executions would not proceed and that the violence had ceased.

Human rights organizations, however, describe the unrest as one of the most significant challenges to the Islamic Republic since 1979, alleging thousands of deaths and widespread arrests. While internet access remains restricted, reports from Tehran suggest that daily life has largely returned to normal, with no large-scale demonstrations recorded in recent days.

Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman reportedly conducted last-minute diplomatic outreach, warning of serious regional repercussions in the event of U.S. military strikes. Switzerland, which represents U.S. interests in Iran, also offered mediation services, while China reiterated its opposition to the use of force ahead of a UN Security Council meeting requested by Washington.

Signs of de-escalation have emerged, including a reduced alert level at the U.S. Al-Udeid air base in Qatar. Nevertheless, concerns persist over the treatment of detainees, as Iranian state media aired interrogations that rights groups fear may involve coerced confessions.