ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Iranian authorities have detained more than 700 individuals in a nationwide crackdown targeting alleged Israeli intelligence operatives, as tensions remain high following recent U.S. and Israeli military actions.
State-affiliated media reported that the arrests are part of an intensified counterintelligence campaign against suspected operatives linked to Israel’s Mossad agency. At least three alleged spies have been executed in the past week, including one on Wednesday.
Third Alleged Mossad Agent Executed in a Week
The latest execution marks the third in seven days tied to espionage accusations. Officials have not released the identities of the individuals, but reports suggest the arrests span multiple provinces and involve alleged sabotage efforts connected to recent strikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.
Iran has long accused Israel of covert operations on its soil, particularly targeting its nuclear program and scientific personnel. The wave of arrests follows Israeli air raids earlier this month that, according to preliminary intelligence assessments, did not completely destroy Iran’s uranium enrichment facilities.
Araghchi: “Iran Will Not Abandon Its Nuclear Technology”
In a televised statement, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi underscored the country’s resolve to continue its nuclear development, despite growing international pressure and ongoing peace talks with the United States.
“Iran will not abandon its nuclear technology. We have worked tirelessly to achieve this progress,” Araghchi told local media.
“A war was imposed on us in the name of nuclear weapons, and our scientists have made significant sacrifices in pursuit of this technology.”
His remarks come amid conflicting narratives about the success of U.S. and Israeli efforts to degrade Iran’s nuclear capabilities. Iran insists its nuclear activities are for peaceful, civilian energy purposes.
Background: Rising Regional Tensions
The arrests and executions come in the wake of intensified regional hostilities. On June 13, Israel launched a surprise aerial campaign against Iranian nuclear sites, followed by retaliatory missile strikes from Iran on Israeli territory. A U.S.-brokered ceasefire is currently in place, though both sides have accused each other of violating its terms.
As Iran continues to assert its sovereignty and reinforce internal security, observers warn that the arrests may further complicate ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at reaching a long-term peace agreement.
