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NATIONAL NEWS

Trump takes the unusual step of thanking Iran for canceling executions of political prisoners

Jan 16, 2026, 10:24 AM

President Donald Trump boards Air Force One, Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, at Joint Base Andrews, Md. (AP ...

President Donald Trump boards Air Force One, Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, at Joint Base Andrews, Md. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)
Credit: ASSOCIATED PRESS

(AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Associated Press's Profile Picture

BY ASSOCIATED PRESS


WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump is thanking Iran for canceling the executions of more than 800 political prisoners.

On Friday, Trump told reporters about the decision while leaving for his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida.

Trump had previously suggested the U.S. might strike Iran if mass killings occurred during widespread protests. The death toll from these protests remains high, but Trump hints U.S. military action is less likely now. The Republican president claims Iran has stopped killings and executions and says he “greatly” respects that.

This statement contrasts with the complex situation in Iran. Trump also stated that he convinced himself to step back from earlier threats of military action.

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Trump takes the unusual step of thanking Iran for canceling executions of political prisoners