Mass arrests in Iran target alleged Israeli spy network, reports say

Iranian intelligence and security forces have reportedly arrested more than 700 individuals suspected of involvement in an Israeli “spy network” operating within the country, according to local media.

State-affiliated outlets, including Fars News Agency and Nournews, said the arrests occurred during Israel’s recent 12-day conflict with Iran. The operation targeted individuals allegedly linked to Israeli intelligence activities.

The conflict, described by Iranian sources as one of the most intense in recent years, involved what Tehran called an unprecedented Israeli intelligence campaign. This campaign reportedly included targeted killings of high-ranking Iranian military officials and prominent nuclear scientists.

“Israel’s military assault on Iran also involved an unprecedented Israeli intelligence operation that included the targeted killings of senior military officials and key nuclear scientists,” the reports stated.

The mass arrests come amid escalating tensions between the two nations and increasing concerns about regional stability. However, similar large-scale detentions by Iranian authorities have previously drawn criticism from international human rights organizations, which have raised concerns over the absence of due process.

“Previous mass arrests by the Iranian government have been criticized by human rights groups for a lack of due process,” the reports noted.

Authorities have not disclosed the identities of those detained, nor have they provided further details about charges or legal proceedings.