Trump claimed to have been told “on good authority” that the killing of protesters in Iran has stopped and that no executions are planned. This statement contrasts with reports of a harsh government crackdown that has killed thousands.
US President Donald Trump has made a striking claim about the ongoing unrest in Iran, saying he has been informed that the killing of protesters in the Islamic Republic has stopped and Tehran has no plan to carry out executions tied to the crackdown. Speaking from the White House on January 14–15, 2026, Trump said he was told “on good authority” that what he called “the killing in Iran is stopping — it’s stopped — it’s stopping.” He added, “And there’s no plan for executions, or an execution, or executions — so I’ve been told that on good authority.”
Trump’s comments come amidst weeks of harsh government suppression of anti-government protests in Iran, which have seen thousands of demonstrators killed, detained, and beaten by security forces. Human rights groups estimate that the total death toll may range from several thousand up to tens of thousands, though exact figures remain contested due to restricted access and communications blackouts inside Iran.
Despite Trump’s assurances, Iranian officials have been sending mixed signals. Tehran’s judiciary and other authorities have indicated they may pursue fast-track trials and executions for protesters detained during the unrest. One Iranian official was quoted telling reporters that swift action and punishments were necessary for those detained, saying, “If we want to do a job, we should do it now… we have to do that fast.”
Related Articles
When pressed about what his comments mean for possible US action, Trump was vague, saying, “We’re going to watch it and see what the process is.” He did not rule out future interventions, leaving open the possibility of diplomatic or even military responses if conditions deteriorate again.
Trump also expressed a cautious optimism, saying, “I hope it’s true. Who knows?” about claims that killings and executions have been halted. He acknowledged he still planned to “find out” whether the reports could be verified.
The backdrop to these statements includes not only domestic unrest in Iran but also heightened geopolitical tensions. Iranian authorities have extended internet and airspace restrictions, complicating outside reporting on the situation, while international pressure, sanctions, and evacuations of foreign nationals reflect escalating anxiety in global capitals.
In sum, Trump’s remarks signal an apparent temporary de-escalation of lethal violence against protesters — pending verification — but the broader crisis persists. Iranian signals of harsh judicial actions and the lack of clarity on US policy mean the situation remains volatile and closely watched worldwide.
