Why it matters:
The IRGC's move shows Tehran’s heightened vigilance against foreign espionage. Their capture signals Iran’s intent to deter covert operations and protect strategic assets, especially in border areas.
The big picture:
The situation reflects the threat of a repeated Israeli war on Iran, with espionage and sabotage becoming key battlegrounds. The IRGC’s actions have also reinforced Iran’s narrative of resilience and sovereignty in the face of perceived foreign aggression.
What IRGC's saying:
- The team had been involved in sending the coordinates of vital and sensitive facilities, as well as information on prominent military figures, to Mossad intelligence officers.
- The arrested elements were planning to design and carry out operations against civilian and military officials, as well as to sabotage key facilities in the holy city of Mashhad.
- The network had in its possession materials for making launchers, bombs, explosives, and improvised explosive devices, which were seized.
- The arrestees were in contact with separatist groups as well.
Go deeper:
Iran Executes Convicted Mossad Agent Accused of Espionage
Hossein Amiri - seyed mohammad kazemi
