Iran executed three more prisoners on Wednesday, accusing them of spying for Israel. These executions are the latest in a series related to the ongoing conflict between the two nations.
The state-run IRNA news agency reported that the hangings took place in Urmia Prison, located in West Azerbaijan province, Iran’s northwesternmost region.
According to IRNA, the Iranian judiciary alleged the men were implicated in bringing “assassination equipment” into the country.
Amidst the ongoing conflict with Israel, Iran’s recent increase in executions has raised concerns among activists. They fear a potential surge in executions once the conflict concludes.
The executed individuals were identified by Iran as Azad Shojaei, Edris Aali, and Iraqi national Rasoul Ahmad Rasoul.
Amnesty International had previously expressed concerns about the potential execution of these individuals.
With Wednesday’s executions, the total number of hangings related to espionage in the context of the war has reached six since June 16.
Activists are worried that more executions may follow, especially given the Iranian theocracy’s recent ultimatum for individuals involved in spying to surrender.
Meanwhile, life in Iran is gradually returning to normal as a fragile ceasefire with Israel, brokered by former US President Donald Trump, appears to be holding.
State media reported heavy traffic around the Caspian Sea and other rural areas outside Tehran as people began returning to the capital city.
Throughout the war, Tehran experienced intense Israeli airstrikes, including those targeting high-ranking Iranian military officials and sites linked to the ruling theocracy.