Iran arrests 22 alleged Israeli operatives as tensions mount

Authorities in Iran’s Qom province have detained 22 individuals suspected of links to Israeli intelligence agencies, according to local media reports, amid growing regional tensions.

The arrests, which reportedly began on June 13, were announced by the province’s police intelligence chief, who was quoted by the semi-official Fars news agency.

“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,” he said.

The development follows an earlier announcement by Iranian police on Thursday that 24 people had been apprehended for allegedly spying for Israel and attempting to damage the country’s reputation. That announcement was carried by Tasnim news agency.

In a separate report on Friday, Tasnim revealed that a European national had also been detained on espionage allegations, though no details were provided regarding the individual’s nationality or when the arrest occurred.

Iran has a history of frequently reporting arrests tied to espionage, particularly involving suspected Israeli operatives. In recent weeks, several individuals convicted on such charges have reportedly been executed.

According to Iran Human Rights, a Norway-based non-governmental organization, at least 223 people have been arrested across the country on accusations of collaborating with Israel. The group warned that the true number may be significantly higher.