Iran Arrests 22 in Qom for Israeli Spy Links Amid Nationwide Crackdown

Iranian authorities in Qom province have arrested 22 individuals accused of links to Israeli intelligence services, disturbing public opinion, and supporting what Iranian officials describe as a criminal regime, according to multiple semi-official sources. These arrests began on June 13 and follow a prior detention of 24 individuals also accused of spying for Israel and attempting to damage Iran's image. Additionally, a European national has been arrested on espionage charges, though details remain sparse. Iran frequently announces such arrests amid ongoing tensions with Israel, with several suspects executed recently. The Norway-based NGO Iran Human Rights reports that at least 223 people have been arrested nationwide on similar charges, cautioning that the real number may be higher due to the opaque nature of these cases. These developments occur against the backdrop of Iran's broader security operations targeting alleged foreign influence and internal dissent.