The Islamic Republic has arrested at least 900 people since the recent conflict with Israel, including two Afghan nationals and eight European citizens, according to a new report by the Hengaw Human Rights Organisation.
Despite a 10-day ceasefire, Hengaw reports that Iranian authorities continue to carry out mass arrests, accusing most detainees of espionage for Israel, spreading propaganda against the regime, or disturbing public order.
While details regarding the two Afghan nationals remain unclear, Tasnim News Agency previously released a video during the 12-day war that allegedly showed the pair’s confessions. Hengaw did not confirm the circumstances under which the confessions were obtained, raising concerns about due process and coercion.
The rights group also reported that at least 40 women were among those arrested across the country during the post-war crackdown. One individual reportedly took their own life while attempting to flee the country and avoid arrest.
Among the eight foreign nationals detained, at least one woman and three Ukrainian citizens were arrested in Iran’s Isfahan Province.
Meanwhile, Iran’s judiciary has passed new legislation imposing harsh penalties on individuals accused of collaborating with foreign media during wartime. Under the new law, those found guilty of sending images or videos to foreign outlets could face 15 to 25 years in prison and be permanently barred from government employment.
These cases are being fast-tracked through the Revolutionary Court system.
Hengaw described the legislation and ongoing detentions as part of a broader campaign to suppress free expression and independent reporting. The group noted that under the Islamic Republic’s revised legal code, collaboration or espionage involving US or Israeli intelligence services is punishable by death.
