Erfan Soltani released on bail, reports say

Erfan Soltani was reported to have been released on bail after earlier reports said he faced a possible death sentence; Iran's judiciary denied a death sentence and said he faces security-related charges carrying prison terms only.

Erfan Soltani, a clothes shop owner whose arrest drew international attention, was reported to have been released on bail. Iran's judiciary has denied that he was sentenced to death and said he is accused of security-related offences that carry prison terms rather than capital punishment. Soltani's lawyer, Amir Mousakhani, told AFP that a bail payment was made and that Soltani received his belongings, including his cellphone. Earlier reporting that he faced execution prompted broad coverage and concern. Key facts: - Iran's judiciary announced Soltani was not sentenced to death and described his case as involving security-related charges that carry prison terms only. - His lawyer reported that he was released on bail, received his personal belongings, and that a bail of two billion tomans was paid. - Earlier reports said an execution had been ordered; the next legal or procedural steps are undetermined at this time. Summary: The case attracted attention after reports that Soltani faced execution, but Iranian officials denied a death sentence and described the charges as non-capital. Reports indicate he has been released on bail and returned his belongings; further legal details and next steps remain undetermined at this time.