Execution of Babak Shahbazi in Iran for Accused Israel Links
In a move that has sparked international criticism and concern, Iran's authorities executed Babak Shahbazi, a contractor specializing in industrial refrigeration systems, at Ghezel Hesar Prison in Karaj. The execution, confirmed by Iran's Supreme Court, took place this morning, marking the ninth such execution for alleged spying since a conflict between Iran and Israel earlier this year.
Shahbazi was reportedly tortured into a false confession after being detained for sending a supportive letter to Ukraine's president, criticizing Iran's ties with Russia. Human rights groups claim that his detention did not stem from Israeli ties but from the public letter he wrote to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, offering to assist in Ukraine's defense against Russia's invasion.
According to Iran Human Rights, Shahbazi's message to President Zelenskyy offering help in the war against Russia was used as an example of espionage for Israel. They find this narrative absurd, as they claim the Iranian interrogators alleged that Shahbazi was taught Microsoft Word by Israeli agents.
Shahbazi was accused of gaining access to sensitive military, security, and communications infrastructure through his work designing and installing cooling systems for data centers and other high-security facilities. He allegedly collected and relayed detailed specifications about these sites to Israeli handlers, collaborating with Esmaeil Fekri, who was executed in June on similar charges.
The sensitive issue of Iran's supply of drones to Moscow is highlighted in the context of Shahbazi's case. However, Iran Human Rights and other human rights activists have contested the espionage narrative against Shahbazi, asserting that he was coerced into a false confession through prolonged torture and solitary confinement.
Shahbazi's family and human rights organizations have reported interrupted contact and lack of access to him. His mother openly stated that authorities intend to execute him as a political instrument to eliminate opponents. The verdict was confirmed by Iran's Supreme Court, despite an appeal from Shahbazi's lawyer.
The execution has resulted in international ridicule and concern. Human rights organizations claim that Shahbazi was not fairly tried and was instead tortured into a false confession. The use of Shahbazi's knowledge of Microsoft Word, allegedly learned from Israeli agents, as supposed evidence of espionage has been met with widespread disbelief and criticism.
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