US President Donald Trump on Friday publicly thanked the Iranian government for not carrying out what he said were planned executions of hundreds of political prisoners, calling the move a sign of restraint amid recent unrest in the country.

Speaking to reporters as he departed the White House for Florida, Trump claimed Iran had canceled the executions of more than 800 people and said he “greatly respected” the decision. He also echoed the message in a social media post, writing a brief note of thanks to Tehran.

The comments followed days of heightened rhetoric in which Trump had warned of possible US military action if Iran proceeded with mass executions during nationwide protests. While activists say the death toll from demonstrations continues to rise, the president’s remarks suggested a softening of his stance, even as the situation in Iran remains complex and unclear.