President Donald Trump stated on Wednesday that he has been informed "the killing in Iran has stopped," though he has not ruled out potential military measures against Iran in light of its suppression of anti-government demonstrations. Reports from human rights organizations suggest that over 2,400 individuals have died in the recent crackdown by Iranian authorities. Trump's remarks followed the reduction of US and UK personnel at the Al-Udeid air base in Qatar—a move described as a "precautionary measure" by officials, according to CBS, a partner of BBC in the US. During the unrest, Iran temporarily closed its airspace for five hours, prompting multiple airlines to announce flight diversions around Iran.
The UK Foreign Office has also closed its embassy in Tehran temporarily, transitioning to remote operations, according to a government spokesperson. Trump had earlier issued a threat of "very strong action" should Iran execute protesters, following reports that a 26-year-old detainee, Erfan Soltani, received a death sentence in connection with the protests. His execution was delayed, his family relayed to the Kurdish human rights group Hengaw. Iranian state media claimed Soltani was arrested but refuted any death sentence.
From the White House, Trump mentioned his administration was told "on good authority" that the violence in Iran is subsiding and there are currently no plans for executions. Trump shared that "very important sources on the other side" had conveyed these updates, expressing hope that these reports hold true.
Amnesty International has noted the Iranian authorities have yet to provide Soltani's family with further clarity regarding his situation, aside from confirming his arrest sparked by a protest in Fardis, near Tehran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, addressing Fox News, negated claims of impending executions, stating "hanging is out of the question." Araghchi cautioned Trump against repeating past mistakes, referencing the US bombing Iran's nuclear sites in June 2025 amid nuclear weapon concerns.
Initially sparked by currency devaluation in late December, the protests have snowballed into a broader crisis challenging Iran's clerical rule. In addition to the British embassy's closure, US entities in Saudi Arabia urge vigilance and minimize missions to military establishments. Italy and Poland have advised nationals to leave Iran, while Germany advises avoiding Iranian airspace due to escalating risks. Lufthansa also confirmed avoiding Iranian and Iraqi airspace. The US embassy in Doha recommended increased awareness for its personnel at the Al-Udeid base. Qatar stressed its commitment to protecting its citizens and residents. Al-Udeid continues to operate as a significant US military installation in the Middle East.