Iranian authorities announced 30 security-related arrests involving alleged espionage, armed groups, and recent protest cases. The announcement came as the United Nations voiced fresh concerns over executions linked to national security charges.
Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence said security forces arrested 21 people for alleged links to Israel’s intelligence agency, Mossad. Officials also detained four other suspects over alleged connections with armed groups.
Kerman Province’s Intelligence Department arrested five additional people over protests held during the Iranian month of Dey 1404. Officials claimed security forces seized four military-grade firearms during the operation.
Authorities did not identify the detainees or disclose specific evidence supporting the accusations. They also did not confirm whether prosecutors had filed formal charges against the suspects.
The arrests followed heightened security measures after recent regional tensions and domestic unrest. Iranian officials say security agencies continue targeting espionage, sabotage, and armed activities across the country.
At the same time, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights expressed concern about Iran’s growing number of executions. The office reported that authorities executed at least 56 people on national security charges since March 19.
According to the UN, official Iranian statements linked 27 of those executions to the Dey 1404 protests. The organization also said executions have increased since the recent conflict involving Iran.
The UN urged Iranian authorities to guarantee fair legal proceedings in every security case. It also called on officials to respect international human rights standards throughout judicial processes.
Judiciary Chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei instructed prosecutors to accelerate investigations involving protest detainees and recent security cases. He also urged judicial officials to issue rulings quickly in national security investigations.
The latest arrests highlight Iran’s continuing security campaign following months of political tensions and regional conflict. International observers will likely continue monitoring both the legal proceedings and the country’s broader human rights situation.