Tehran(The COW News Digital) Iran’s Justice Minister Amin Hossein Rahimi has declared that individuals arrested during recent unrest in the country are criminals and will not be granted any form of leniency, as authorities adopt a hardline stance against those detained in connection with the disturbances.
Speaking to journalists after a cabinet meeting, Rahimi said the events that took place between January 8 and January 10 could not be described as protests. Instead, he characterized the situation as “complete civil conflict,” arguing that the scale and nature of the unrest went far beyond peaceful demonstrations.
The justice minister stated that all individuals detained during this period were present at the scenes of violence and disorder, and therefore bear criminal responsibility. “Those who were arrested are criminals,” Rahimi said, adding that there would be no concessions, reductions in punishment, or special treatment for the detainees.
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Rahimi’s remarks signal a continuation of Iran’s strict judicial approach toward those accused of involvement in recent unrest. He emphasized that the legal process would proceed firmly and without compromise, reflecting what he described as the state’s responsibility to maintain order and national security.
In addition, the justice minister said that legal action against Israel, the United States, and supporters of monarchist movements was also part of the government’s broader agenda. He accused foreign actors and opposition groups abroad of encouraging instability and unrest inside Iran, claims that have frequently been made by Iranian officials during periods of domestic turmoil.
Rahimi’s comments align with earlier statements made by Iran’s judiciary chief, Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, who has also ruled out any leniency for those arrested. Mohseni Ejei previously stated that detainees should be prosecuted swiftly and punished in accordance with the law, reinforcing the judiciary’s tough posture.
The Iranian government has repeatedly blamed external forces for fueling unrest, while critics and human rights organizations have raised concerns over the treatment of protesters and the fairness of legal proceedings. International observers have called for restraint and due process, urging Iranian authorities to respect fundamental rights.
Despite such calls, Iranian officials maintain that the actions taken by security forces and the judiciary are necessary to safeguard stability and prevent further violence. The latest statements from the justice minister indicate that Tehran is unlikely to soften its stance in the near future, as trials and legal proceedings against those arrested are expected to move forward rapidly.
