Iran Intensifies Crackdown with Rapid Executions Amid Conflict

Iran has escalated its crackdown on alleged spies, executing three individuals accused of collaborating with Israel's Mossad intelligence agency, according to statements from the Islamic Republic's judiciary. This brings the total number of executions connected to espionage charges during the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel to six, all of whom were reportedly implicated in what authorities term a "season of traitor-killing". The executions occurred less than 48 hours after a ceasefire was announced on June 25, 2025, following a 12-day war that Iranian officials claim resulted in at least 627 deaths and 4,870 injuries, alongside significant infrastructure damage across the nation.

The Iranian judiciary justified the swift executions by stating that the convicted individuals were involved in espionage activities. However, human rights advocates have raised concerns about the fairness of the trials, arguing that the condemned were Kurdish day laborers with no access to sensitive information. "This is a very corrupt regime, and there is no due process in Iran," said Azadeh Pourzand, a Middle East and human rights expert at the Centre for Middle East and Global Order, emphasizing the systemic issues within Iran's judicial processes.

The backdrop of these events is a complicated political landscape in Iran where the regime's grip on power appears to be tightening in the wake of significant military losses. Analysts had speculated about potential regime change due to the extensive damage inflicted during the conflict, particularly the loss of high-ranking military officials and critical infrastructure. Despite these challenges, the Iranian government has maintained its authority, leading many activists to express fears over escalating repression. Pourzand characterized the current situation as a "systematic and rigid form of repression" that includes increased surveillance and control over dissent.

During the 12-day conflict, Iranian security forces reported the arrest of over 700 individuals suspected of links to Israel. Following the ceasefire, Iran's judiciary announced modifications to its Espionage Law, establishing a new committee to monitor citizens' online activities, which state media has described as part of an "intelligence jihad" aimed at enhancing national security.

The atmosphere within the country has become increasingly oppressive, with reports of heightened patrols by security forces leading to widespread fear among the populace. A 23-year-old student activist from Tehran expressed her trepidation, stating, "It’s an extremely terrifying time. I think we’re about to enter a phase of further paralysis and suffocation."

The regime's response to the conflict has followed a historical pattern where state power is consolidated in times of crisis. Pourzand noted that the Iranian government has historically manipulated narratives, using misinformation to control public perception. Many Iranians are still reeling from the repercussions of the 2022 "Woman, Life, Freedom" protests, which resulted in numerous deaths and a heavy crackdown on civil liberties.

The complex emotions surrounding the recent war have led to mixed feelings among the Iranian populace. While some initially viewed Israel's involvement as a potential liberating force, others are skeptical of their true intentions. Samira, a 23-year-old activist, cautioned against naivety, asserting that Israel's goals primarily revolve around neutralizing Iran's nuclear capabilities rather than supporting the Iranian people.

On June 27, 2025, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei made a rare public appearance, framing the military actions against Israel as a divine victory. However, his rhetoric has raised concerns that the regime's retaliatory measures may disproportionately affect ordinary citizens, especially as international attention wanes. Pourzand warned, "What’s already started is quite horrific; unfortunately, I think what’s coming will be even worse."

As the Iranian government intensifies its crackdown, the implications for human rights and civil liberties are dire. The international community has been urged to remain vigilant and responsive to the evolving situation, with activists calling for sustained attention to the plight of ordinary Iranians caught in the crossfire of geopolitical tensions.