Iran signals fast trials and executions and warns of decisive response to U.S. and Israel

Iranian officials announced plans for rapid trials and possible executions of people detained in nationwide protests and warned of a “decisive response” if the U.S. or Israel intervene; authorities have detained more than 18,000 people amid restricted communications and reported heavy casualties.

Iranian officials have announced plans for swift legal action against people detained in nationwide protests and have warned of a decisive response if foreign powers intervene. The statements come amid a broad security crackdown that followed protests beginning in late December after a sharp currency collapse. Communications in the country have been restricted, making independent verification difficult. International officials and rights groups have expressed concern about the scale of detentions and reported deaths. Key facts: - Iran's judiciary chief announced intentions for rapid trials and possible executions for a large number of detainees, saying such actions should be carried out quickly. - A senior commander of the Revolutionary Guard reiterated claims, reported without presented evidence, that the U.S. and Israel instigated unrest and said those countries would "receive the response in the appropriate time." - Rights groups reported more than 18,000 people detained and reported deaths in the thousands, and an international communications blackout has limited independent verification of casualty figures. Summary: The announcements indicate an official move toward fast legal proceedings for many detainees and heightened rhetoric toward the U.S. and Israel. The human and political consequences are reported as significant, and further independent confirmation of numbers and outcomes is undetermined at this time.