Over 21,000 individuals reportedly held as 'suspects' in 12-day clash between Iran and Israel
In the aftermath of the 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel in June 2025, Iranian authorities intensified a security crackdown, arresting thousands of individuals on suspicion of espionage and unauthorized filming.
According to official police reports and Iranian state media, a total of 21,000 people were arrested during the conflict period. Of these, 261 were arrested on suspicion of spying, and 172 were detained for unauthorized filming using video cameras or phones.
The crackdown was aimed at countering Israeli espionage activities within Iran. Some detainees were accused of filming sensitive sites without authorization. Moreover, Iranian authorities reported uncovering 30 special security cases from examinations of suspects' mobile phones.
One notable case involved the execution of a man convicted of spying for Israel, who passed on sensitive information related to nuclear scientists killed during the conflict. Iranian officials emphasized no leniency towards those accused of spying.
Since the end of June, Iran has executed seven men convicted of spying for Israel. Additionally, one man was executed for Islamic State links.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights reported that the number of executions in Iran rose to at least 901 last year, the highest annual figure since 2015.
The UN refugee agency reported a significant increase in Afghan migrants being deported from Iran back to Afghanistan during the conflict. A total of 2,774 illegal migrants were rounded up during the security forces' crackdown.
Iranian police initially stated that around 2,000 people were arrested during and after the 12-day conflict with Israel. However, this is the first time they have given a total number of arrests during the conflict.
According to Iran's judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, many of the arrested individuals were released after investigations found no evidence of spying for or cooperation with Israel.
These figures come amidst ongoing nuclear talks between Iran and E3 nations, with no breakthrough reported in Istanbul. Notably, no inspections are planned during the UN nuclear agency's deputy's visit to Iran.
References: 1. Iran executes man convicted of spying for Israel 2. Iran arrests 21,000 during Israel conflict 3. Iran executes man for spying for Israel 4. Iran arrests 21,000 during Israel conflict 5. Iran arrests thousands during Israel conflict
- The Iranian authorities are reportedly investigating 30 special security cases related to espionage and unauthorized filming, within the context of politics and general-news, such as the spying activities of certain individuals.
- Amidst the crime-and-justice sector, it has been reported that a total of 2,774 illegal migrants were rounded up during Iran's security forces' crackdown, along with the arrest of thousands more in relation to the 12-day conflict with Israel.
