Iran arrests multiple Israeli spies linked to drone ops

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
24 Jun 2025 11:40

Iran’s security forces dismantle espionage and cyber networks tied to "Israel", amid a wave of drone activity in the wake of deadly strikes targeting scientists and prisons.

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An Iranian police officer stands guard during the funeral ceremony of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and his bodyguard, at Azadi (Freedom) St. in Tehran, Iran, Thursday, August 1, 2024. (AP)

In a major crackdown on Israeli-linked espionage, propaganda, and drone operations, the Iranian Islamic Revolution Guards Corps' (IRGC) intelligence announced on Tuesday the arrest of six individuals accused of operating as agents for the Israeli entity in Hamedan province, western Iran.

This development comes after Iranian state television reported on Monday evening that a network of agents had been apprehended. The group was operating drones from the northwestern mountains overlooking Tehran.

According to state media, the dismantled network was responsible for surveillance activities and potential threats to national security. The group reportedly used drone technology to gather intelligence and monitor sensitive areas.

Two days earlier, the IRGC's public relations office confirmed the arrest of another Israeli collaborator in Khorramabad, Lorestan province. The individual was reportedly in possession of an explosive device at the time of arrest.

On June 16, 2025, Tasnim News Agency reported that cyber police in Isfahan province identified 60 individuals suspected of collaborating with "Israel" to spread disinformation, manipulate public opinion, and undermine national stability.

Nuclear scientists targeted

In related developments, Iranian state television confirmed the assassination of nuclear scientist Mohammad Reza Sadeghi in an Israeli strike early Tuesday, shortly before the ceasefire was implemented.

This follows the assassination of three other nuclear scientists, Ali Bakaei Karimi, Mansour Askari, and Saeed Barji, who were killed on June 14.

Additionally, several employees and civilians were martyred in Monday’s Israeli strike on Evin Prison. Iran’s judiciary spokesperson condemned the attack, labeling it a "war crime."