Iran arrests 22 in Qom over alleged ties to 'Israeli' intelligence

Iranian authorities in Qom province have detained 22 individuals accused of having connections to 'Israeli' intelligence services, according to a report by the semi-official Fars News Agency on Saturday.

The arrests, which reportedly began on June 13, were part of a wider security operation targeting alleged foreign influence and internal dissent. “22 people were identified and arrested on charges of being linked to the Zionist regime's spy services, disturbing public opinion, and supporting the criminal regime,” said the province’s police intelligence chief, as quoted by Fars.

This latest round of arrests comes just days after Iranian police announced the detention of 24 other individuals, also accused of spying for 'Israel' and attempting to damage the Islamic Republic’s public image. The statement, issued Thursday and carried by Tasnim News Agency, offered few details on the alleged activities of the suspects.

In a related development, Tasnim reported Friday that a European national had also been arrested on espionage charges. No information was provided regarding their nationality or the date of the arrest.

Iran frequently accuses foreign governments, particularly 'Israel', of espionage and subversion. In recent weeks, the country has carried out multiple arrests and executions tied to spying allegations.

The Norway-based NGO Iran Human Rights said that at least 223 individuals have been arrested across the country over alleged collaboration with 'Israeli' intelligence. The group warned, however, that the true number may be significantly higher, given the opacity surrounding such cases.