Iran has executed a man convicted of spying for Israel’s intelligence agency Mossad, state media reported on Wednesday, amid heightened regional tensions and renewed rhetoric between Tehran, Tel Aviv, and Washington. The execution comes as Iran says it is confronting what it describes as an intensifying campaign of foreign espionage and covert operations.
Read More: Iran arrests 20 Mossad spies, executes nuclear scientist
According to the state-owned news agency IRNA, the man was identified as Ali Ardesteni, who allegedly confessed to passing sensitive information to Mossad operatives. The report said he received financial compensation in the form of cryptocurrency for sharing classified material with Israeli intelligence handlers.
Iran has executed a man working as Mossad’s agent. He was getting paid in crypto to undertake this spying activity. pic.twitter.com/kkajAQXtKc
— Sapna Singh (@AdvSapna_) January 7, 2026
IRNA claimed Ardesteni was recruited online and later promised one million dollars and a British visa in exchange for his cooperation. He was described as a “special operative” who allegedly filmed and photographed sensitive sites inside Iran before transmitting the material to Mossad contacts.
The Iranian authorities did not disclose details about the timing of his arrest or the length of his detention. State media, however, maintained that the case went through all required judicial procedures and was handled in accordance with Iranian law.
Human rights organisations have repeatedly challenged such claims, arguing that confessions in national security cases are often obtained under duress. Rights groups say these practices raise serious concerns about due process and the fairness of trials involving espionage charges.
Iran has executed at least 12 people on espionage-related convictions since last year’s 12-day conflict with Israel, according to official statements. Tehran has accused Israel of orchestrating sabotage, assassinations, and intelligence operations inside Iranian territory.
Read More: Iran arrests 28 Mossad agents in Tehran after busting Israeli spy
Tensions between Iran and Israel have continued to rise, with Israeli leaders openly calling for regime change in Tehran. US President Donald Trump has also warned that military action against Iran remains an option if Washington deems it necessary.