TEHRAN — Iran’s judiciary announced on Saturday that 20 people have been arrested in recent months on charges of working for “Israeli” intelligence agency Mossad. Officials said the arrests are part of a broader effort to deter espionage, vowing to deal firmly with those involved.
According to state media, Iran executed nuclear scientist Rouzbeh Vaadi on Wednesday for allegedly spying for Israel and providing information about another nuclear scientist who was killed in Israeli airstrikes in June.
Judiciary spokesperson Asghar Jahangiri said some of the 20 suspects have since been cleared of charges and released, though he did not specify the number.
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The developments come amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel, with Tehran accusing Mossad of orchestrating assassinations and sabotage targeting its nuclear program.
Jahangiri emphasized, “The judiciary will show no leniency toward spies and agents of the Zionist regime and will make all convicted individuals an example by issuing deterrent sentences.”
Full details will be announced once investigations are complete.
Executions of Iranians convicted of spying for Israel have surged this year, with at least eight death sentences carried out recently.
