Iran Prosecutor Denies Trump Claim Over 800 Protester Executions
Iran's prosecutor-general denies that 800 executions were halted, contradicting President Trump's claim amid activist reports of at least 5,032 deaths.
Overview
Mohammad Movahedi, Iran's prosecutor-general, told state news agency Mizan on Friday that "This claim is completely false; no such number exists," denying President Donald Trump's assertion he halted the execution of 800 detained protesters.
The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reported at least 5,032 fatalities and more than 27,600 detentions, as Iran's comprehensive internet blackout crossed its two-week mark and hindered independent verification.
A White House official said President Trump is "watching the situation in Iran very seriously" and U.S. Navy records show the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group is moving toward the region as a deterrent.
Iran's government reported 3,117 deaths while activists' tallies exceed 5,000, and U.N. High Commissioner Volker Türk expressed concern about "contradictory statements" from Iranian authorities regarding possible executions.
Iran's mission to the United Nations declined to comment, and a White House official said "all options are on the table," raising the prospect of U.S. military action if executions resume, officials said.
Analysis
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