Iranian security agencies have launched a sweeping crackdown on alleged espionage activities, arresting several individuals — including a foreign national — in different provinces. The arrests have intensified concerns over growing foreign intelligence infiltration amid heightened regional tensions.
According to Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) intelligence unit apprehended five suspects in the western Lorestan province. Although specific details of their missions were not released, officials claimed the individuals were involved in activities that posed a “security threat” to the Islamic Republic.
In a more high-profile case, police in the city of Rey arrested an Afghan national reportedly linked to Israel’s Mossad spy agency. The individual, a university student, was allegedly in possession of sensitive digital material on bomb-making, drone mechanics, and surveillance technologies. Iranian officials say the arrest followed weeks of intelligence monitoring.
Authorities revealed that the suspect had entered Iran illegally and was likely recruited or influenced by foreign intelligence networks. His mobile phone reportedly contained files that could be used in sabotage or terror operations — a point Iran emphasized in its claim that hostile agencies are trying to destabilize the country from within.
Iran’s Border Police Chief, Brigadier General Ahmad-Ali Goudarzi, warned neighboring countries — particularly Afghanistan — that Tehran will not tolerate the use of foreign soil for launching covert attacks or spy operations. He affirmed that Iran’s borders are under full surveillance and any act of espionage or terrorism will be met with a swift response.
These arrests come amid rising tensions between Iran and Israel, as well as recent accusations by Iranian officials that Mossad has stepped up its intelligence efforts within Iran. Security forces have vowed to continue identifying and dismantling foreign intelligence networks operating on Iranian soil.