Iranian authorities have detained over 900 individuals in the aftermath of the recent conflict with Israel, according to a report by the Hengaw Human Rights Organisation. Among those arrested are two Afghan nationals and eight European citizens, signaling an intensifying clampdown despite a 10-day ceasefire.
The report states that arrests continue nationwide, with most detainees accused of espionage for Israel, anti-regime propaganda, or disturbing public order. While details surrounding the detained Afghans remain murky, Iran’s public media previously aired a video during the 12-day conflict that allegedly featured their confessions. Hengaw, however, expressed concern over the legitimacy of these admissions, citing the absence of clarity on whether coercion or duress played a role.
The crackdown has disproportionately affected women, with at least 40 female detainees reported. Tragically, one individual is said to have died by suicide while attempting to flee the country to avoid arrest.
Among the eight foreign nationals, Hengaw confirmed the arrest of one woman and three Ukrainian citizens in Isfahan Province, raising diplomatic concerns as tensions persist post-conflict.
In a parallel move, Iran’s judiciary has introduced sweeping new legislation targeting anyone accused of collaborating with foreign media during wartime. The law threatens sentences ranging from 15 to 25 years in prison, along with lifetime bans from public employment, for those who share images or videos with international news outlets.
These cases are being expedited through Iran’s Revolutionary Court system, often criticised for lacking transparency and due process.
Hengaw denounced the legal crackdown as part of a broader strategy to silence dissent and suppress independent journalism. The organisation highlighted that under Iran’s revised legal code, acts of espionage or collaboration involving U.S. or Israeli intelligence can carry the death penalty.
The human rights group warned that such measures not only violate fundamental freedoms but also deepen the country’s isolation in the global community.
