Iran executes man accused of spying for Israel’s Mossad
Iran’s judiciary has executed Hamidreza Sabet Esmailpour for allegedly passing information to Israel’s Mossad agency. The execution took place after he was arrested in April 2025 and convicted of espionage and aiding sabotage operations. Rights groups have raised concerns about the fairness of such trials and the potential for further executions amid ongoing protests. Iran remains one of the world’s leading countries for executions, with hundreds put to death each year.
What we know
- Hamidreza Sabet Esmailpour was executed at dawn after being convicted of spying for Mossad.
- He was accused of sharing intelligence, purchasing equipment for sabotage, and moving explosive-rigged vehicles.
- The last execution for similar charges occurred on January 7, when Ali Ardestani was put to death.
- Protests that began in late December over living costs escalated into mass demonstrations, leading to thousands killed and tens of thousands arrested.
- Rights groups warn that confessions may be obtained under torture and that innocent people may be at risk of execution.
