Iran’s security forces have arrested at least 50 individuals accused of leaking sensitive information about key national facilities to what authorities described as “enemy states.” The arrests were confirmed on April 12, 2026, by Iran’s state news agency SNN. The detainees are alleged to have worked as mercenaries engaged in espionage activities on behalf of the United States and Israel.

According to the report, the suspects had been providing foreign intelligence agencies with details about the locations of critical infrastructure and service sectors. During the operation, security forces reportedly seized a large quantity of electronic devices, satellite equipment, and weapons. The arrests come amid intensified counter-espionage operations following a deadly 12-day conflict last year between Iran and the United States and Israel.

Under Iran’s recently amended anti-espionage law, those convicted of such crimes face severe penalties, including the death sentence and confiscation of property. The mass arrests are seen as adding new tension to already strained intelligence relations between Iran, Israel, and Western nations.