Iran has forcefully rejected US claims that it halted mass executions following weeks of deadly nationwide protests. Iranian officials say thousands were killed during unrest sparked by economic hardship, blaming “terrorists and armed rioters” backed by foreign enemies, while Washington accuses Tehran of brutal repression. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has lashed out at President Donald Trump, calling him a “criminal,” as Iran’s judiciary warns that executions under the charge of Mohareb may still proceed. Conflicting death tolls, internet blackouts, and reports of severe crackdowns continue to fuel international alarm.