Iran has reportedly executed multiple individuals accused of espionage during its recent conflict with Israel. The crackdown has seen a surge in arrests on charges of spying, following what Iranian authorities describe as a major breach in their security systems by Israeli operatives. The infiltration, which stunned Tehran, prompted a swift and far-reaching response after Israel assessed that its internal security was intact, shifting focus to enemy territory.
It is believed that Israeli intelligence, relying on information from operatives within Iran, played a key role in the targeted killings of senior Iranian officials during the conflict. Among those killed in Israeli operations were high-ranking commanders and nuclear scientists from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Iranian authorities suspect Mossad’s involvement in the assassinations and believe that Israeli agents inside Iran were instrumental in executing the attacks.
In the aftermath, several individuals accused of collaborating with Mossad have been detained. Simultaneously, there are emerging reports that arrests have also been made to suppress dissent under the guise of anti-espionage measures. This dual narrative has raised concerns over the true motives behind the arrests.
During the 12 days of intense fighting, Iran executed three individuals convicted of spying for Israel. Three more executions were carried out following the ceasefire. Officials reported that hundreds had been detained across the country on charges related to espionage. Iranian state television aired confessions from a number of those arrested, who were accused of working with Israeli intelligence services. However, human rights groups and activists have voiced serious concerns over the possibility of forced confessions, lack of due process, and fears of further executions.
At the same time, Iran’s Intelligence Ministry has declared an unrelenting campaign against foreign intelligence services, targeting what it calls an extensive network involving Mossad, the CIA, and Britain’s MI6. According to Iranian media, over 700 individuals were arrested during the 12-day period by security and intelligence forces.
Amid this sweeping crackdown, several Iranian citizens told BBC Persian that they had received direct warnings from the Intelligence Ministry. These messages informed recipients that their phone numbers had been linked to social media pages allegedly associated with Israel.
The Iranian government has also intensified its pressure on Persian-language journalists operating from abroad. Media outlets such as BBC Persian, Iran International (London-based), and Manoto TV have reportedly come under increased scrutiny and threats from Iranian authorities, indicating a broader campaign to control narratives and suppress independent reporting.
