Iranian authorities have arrested at least 50 people for alleged “mercenary” activities, Al Jazeera reports, citing state-linked SNN news agency.

The group was accused of collaborating with the US and Israel by sharing sensitive locations, including service facilities and infrastructure. Authorities also seized electronics, satellite equipment and weapons, SNN said.

A recently enhanced espionage law allows those accused of spying to face the death penalty and confiscation of property.

Iran’s national flags flutter above the signage of US Den of Espionage Museum, which used to be the former US embassy in Tehran on April 11, 2026. — AFP
Iran’s national flags flutter above the signage of US Den of Espionage Museum, which used to be the former US embassy in Tehran on April 11, 2026. — AFP

Opinion

Editorial

Pressure politics
27 May, 2026

Pressure politics

THE Abraham Accords were presented as a historic peace initiative in the Middle East. In reality, they were...
Eid’s true spirit
Updated 27 May, 2026

Eid’s true spirit

Pakistan celebrates Eid while grappling with economic strain that continues to weigh heavily on ordinary households.
Cotton crisis
27 May, 2026

Cotton crisis

PAKISTAN’S declining cotton economy is rapidly turning into a case study in policy contradiction. Amid endless...
Balochistan tragedy
Updated 26 May, 2026

Balochistan tragedy

The state keeps reiterating the role of hostile foreign actors in fomenting unrest, yet seems to be short on ideas on how to prevent the ingress of such actors and their ideologies in Baloch society.
Economic engagement
26 May, 2026

Economic engagement

AN array of investment MoUs valued at $7bn signed during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s China visit signifies...
Flotilla abuse
26 May, 2026

Flotilla abuse

THE testimonies that have emerged from international activists, who were part of a Gaza-bound flotilla, paint a...