Iran Executes First Spy Convicted for Wartime Espionage

Iran’s judiciary announced the execution of Mojtaba Kian early this morning. He was convicted of transmitting coordinates and facility information related to Iran’s defence industry to hostile networks affiliated with the United States and Israel. The judiciary said the offence occurred during the nearly 40‑day war that began on February 28 after US‑Israeli strikes killed senior Iranian leaders.

Mojtaba Kian sent multiple messages to hostile networks, including coordinates and details on facilities producing parts for Iran’s defence capabilities. One targeted location in Iran was struck during the war after he shared its whereabouts. His execution took place less than 50 days after his arrest, and his assets were confiscated. Iran carries out the second‑highest number of executions globally, behind only China, according to rights groups.

The hanging signals a shift in Iran’s approach to wartime espionage, treating such acts as capital crimes for the first time in the current conflict. It also reflects a broader trend of increased executions for alleged collaboration with Israel and the United States since the hostilities began. Observers note that the move may deter further leaks but could also draw international criticism over Iran’s use of the death penalty.