Iran closes airspace to all flights as foreign minister denies it plans to execute protesters – live

The GuardianThursday, January 15, 2026 at 12:23:36 AM
Iran closes airspace to all flights as foreign minister denies it plans to execute protesters – live
  • Iran has closed its airspace to all flights as Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied plans to execute protesters, stating that hangings are 'out of the question.' This comes amid a violent crackdown on anti-government demonstrations, which has reportedly resulted in thousands of deaths and a significant international response.
  • The closure of airspace reflects heightened tensions and the Iranian government's efforts to control the narrative surrounding the protests and the potential repercussions of international condemnation. This situation is compounded by U.S. President Donald Trump's warnings of 'very strong action' if executions proceed, indicating a precarious balance of power and influence in the region.
  • The ongoing unrest in Iran highlights a broader struggle between the government and its citizens, with increasing calls for accountability and human rights amidst a backdrop of international scrutiny. The Iranian leadership's defiance against external pressures, coupled with the rising death toll and reports of summary executions, underscores the severity of the crisis and the potential for further escalation in both domestic and international arenas.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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