Why it matters:
The case underscores Iran’s heightened counter-intelligence measures against Israeli infiltration and highlights the vulnerability of sensitive infrastructure sectors to foreign espionage.
The big picture:
Iran and the Israeli regime have long been engaged in a shadow war involving cyber operations, intelligence networks, and sabotage attempts. Tehran has repeatedly accused Tel Aviv of orchestrating espionage operations targeting its nuclear, military, and security facilities.
Key points:
- Babak Shahbazi, executed on September 17, 2025 (26 Shahrivar 1404), was convicted of sharing sensitive intelligence with Israeli operatives.
- He worked as a contractor in industrial cooling systems, giving him access to strategic facilities.
- His role provided him with knowledge of data centers and infrastructure belonging to telecommunications, military, and security organizations.
- Shahbazi’s death sentence was upheld by the Supreme Court after legal proceedings.
State of play:
According to Iranian authorities, Shahbazi’s position in installing industrial cooling systems at critical sites enabled him to gather classified data, which he transferred to Israel’s Mossad through affiliated operatives.
Go deeper:
IRGC Disbands Mossad-Linked Team in Northeastern Iran
Hossein Vaez - Hossein Vaez
