Iran Executes Man Accused of Spying for Israel

Amir Daftari, a Newsweek journalist based in London, specializes in global affairs with a focus on the Middle East. He joined Newsweek in 2024 after working at CNN International and the United Nations. Amir, a graduate of the London School of Economics, has received awards for his reporting on the Arab Spring and the 2021 Iranian elections. Contact Amir at a.daftari@newsweek.com. Languages spoken: English and Farsi.

Iran has executed Mohsen Langarneshin for espionage on behalf of Israel and his alleged involvement in the assassination of an IRGC officer, as reported by the state-run news agency Mizan. Langarneshin was said to have been recruited by Mossad in 2020 and executed by hanging early Wednesday morning. Newsweek has reached out to the foreign ministries of Iran and Israel for comments.

The execution of Langarneshin underscores the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel involving espionage, cyber operations, and assassinations. While Iran sees these actions as necessary for national security, critics raise concerns about due process and capital punishment. The timing of the execution amid regional instability and diplomatic talks with the United States may indicate Tehran’s efforts to assert control domestically and internationally.

Iranian authorities accused Langarneshin of spying for Mossad, gathering classified information, and playing a role in the assassination of IRGC officer Sayad Khodai. Iran has a history of executing individuals accused of spying for foreign countries, with Langarneshin being the latest in a pattern of such executions.

The execution of Langarneshin may escalate tensions with Israel and increase regional uncertainty. While it could lead to further conflict, Tehran may view it as a display of strength to reinforce its domestic authority and send a message to allies and rivals in the volatile Middle East.