Spying
Iran on Wednesday carried out the execution of three men convicted of collaborating with Israel’s intelligence agency, Mossad, and smuggling equipment that was reportedly used in an assassination operation. The executions were confirmed by the country’s judiciary through its official news outlet, Mizan News Agency.
According to Mizan, the individuals were found guilty of cooperating with the Israeli spy agency and playing a critical logistical role by transporting equipment that was later used in the killing of an unidentified individual. While the report confirmed the assassination, it did not disclose the identity of the victim or the exact circumstances surrounding the operation.
These executions reflect Iran’s continued crackdown on individuals it accuses of aiding foreign intelligence services, particularly those tied to Israel.
The Islamic Republic has long accused Mossad of orchestrating a series of high-profile covert operations on Iranian soil, including the assassinations of top nuclear scientists, cyberattacks on nuclear facilities, and other forms of sabotage aimed at weakening Iran’s nuclear programme and military infrastructure.
The decades-long covert conflict—often referred to as a “shadow war”—between Iran and Israel has intensified in recent years. While traditionally conducted in secrecy through intelligence operations and proxy engagements, tensions between the two countries erupted into open conflict during the recent 12-day war, prompting renewed security measures inside Iran.
Iranian authorities have frequently blamed Mossad for penetrating its security apparatus, claiming the agency has recruited local agents to carry out assassinations and gather classified information.
In response, Tehran has arrested, tried, and in many cases executed individuals it accuses of espionage or collaboration with hostile foreign entities.
Wednesday’s executions are part of a broader pattern of what Iranian officials describe as efforts to safeguard national security and respond decisively to threats posed by Israel and its allies.
The judiciary has emphasized that harsh penalties, including capital punishment, will continue to be applied against those found guilty of aiding foreign intelligence agencies involved in subversive activities on Iranian territory.
