Erfan Sultani, aged 26, is on the verge of facing execution through hanging following his arrest amidst a series of protests against the government, where he was promptly handed a death sentence by an Iranian court.
Erfan, who resides near Tehran in Fardis, was apprehended on January 8 during the ongoing demonstrations that have engulfed Iran since late December 2025. He has been accused of moharebeh, which translates to “waging war against God,” a severe crime in Iran that is frequently used against individuals perceived as threats to the state.
His family endured days of uncertainty before being informed that he had been condemned to death, with only a brief 10-minute farewell allowed. Concerns have been raised by human rights organizations regarding the rapidity of the legal proceedings, which have been widely criticized for lacking proper due process.
Information suggests that Erfan might have been deprived of legal representation, as his appointed lawyer was reportedly blocked from accessing his case details. The scheduled date for his execution is today, January 14, and as the deadline nears, the emotional toll on Erfan and his family is expected to be profound.
According to criminal psychologist Alex Iszatt, the prosecution system is structured to cause maximum distress and fear to those arrested and their loved ones.
Describing the psychological impact of being informed about imminent death following an unfair legal process, Alex explains how the suddenness of such news can trigger extreme emotional responses, leading to a state of acute anxiety and detachment.
In such situations, individuals may alternate between fear and emotional numbness as a coping mechanism against overwhelming terror. The controlled and brief farewell interactions intensify the trauma for Erfan and his family, leaving lasting emotional scars as the final moments are heavily monitored and devoid of genuine expressions.
Rather than providing closure, the monitored interactions become lasting memories of forced composure or visible distress, haunting family members as they replay those moments in their minds. The lack of control over the situation adds to the anguish, as it serves as a psychological tactic by the state to assert dominance and instill fear.
The imminent execution of Erfan has sparked widespread outrage both within Iran and globally. Rights groups view his sentence as an example of the state weaponizing its legal system to quash dissent amidst escalating crackdowns.
US President Donald Trump has cautioned Iran against executing protestors, threatening significant action in response. The protests that originated from economic grievances have evolved into anti-government demonstrations demanding the ousting of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
While the protests appear to be losing momentum, reports indicate that internet access has been restricted. Several European nations have summoned Iranian envoys over the violent suppression of protests, with the UK also condemning the brutal treatment of demonstrators.
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