Iran arrests alleged Mossad operatives in espionage crackdown

Iranian security forces have arrested two individuals allegedly affiliated with Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency in the northeastern province of North Khorasan, as part of an ongoing counter-espionage campaign.

According to North Khorasan’s Public and Revolutionary Prosecutor, Javad Ilali, the suspects were detained for engaging in activities described as terrorism and espionage against the Islamic Republic, Caliber.Az reports, citing Iranian media.

“The judicial system in the province is firmly determined to take decisive action against criminals involved in espionage,” Ilali stated.

The arrests are part of a broader sweep targeting what Iranian authorities describe as extensive Mossad infiltration attempts. Ilali also noted that 15 additional individuals are currently being prosecuted in North Khorasan for allegedly disseminating false information and anti-government propaganda in connection with the recent 12-day escalation involving Israel and the United States.

The latest detentions follow the execution of three men last month, convicted of collaborating with Mossad to smuggle explosives into Iran for use in assassinations of high-profile figures. Iranian security agencies claim that hundreds of suspected Mossad operatives have been arrested in recent weeks across multiple provinces.

Authorities have also reported the dismantling of several covert drone production and operational sites allegedly managed by Mossad agents. The suspects are accused of plotting attacks using drones, manufacturing explosive devices, surveilling military facilities, and transmitting classified information to Israeli intelligence.

Iranian officials portray these efforts as part of a broader strategy by Israel to destabilize the country through covert operations, amid heightened regional tensions. The Iranian government has vowed to continue its crackdown on what it calls “Zionist infiltration networks,” warning of severe consequences for those found guilty of espionage and collaboration.

By Vafa Guliyeva