Iran says it has smashed multiple espionage networks it alleged were working for the United States and Israel, marking Tehran‘s latest move against what it calls a vast web of foreign spies.

The arrests, carried out in Iran’s northern Mazandaran province, come amid soaring tensions between Tehran and Washington, with Iranian officials vowing harsh consequences for foreign interference.

Newsweek has reached out to the White House via email for comment.

Why It Matters

Iran frequently accuses foreign intelligence agencies of attempting to infiltrate its security infrastructure, often launching sweeping crackdowns on suspected spies.

The latest arrests reflect Tehran’s ongoing battle against alleged operatives, though Iranian authorities have yet to provide evidence of the claims. These accusations also come at a time of heightened military and geopolitical tensions, with Iran threatening retaliation in the event of any strikes on its nuclear facilities.

What to Know

Siavash Moslemi, an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander in the Mazandaran province said that authorities had successfully disrupted intelligence operations allegedly linked to “U.S. intelligence, the Zionist regime, and other hostile countries.”

Moslemi said the suspects entered Iran as foreign nationals or visitors, using trading companies, cultural organizations, and charities as cover to gather classified intelligence and establish infiltration networks. He added that the operation had “prevented security threats and potential crises” but did not specify the number of any arrests or provide proof of links to the U.S. or Israel.

British Nationals Charged with Espionage

The announcement followed news that two British nationals, Craig and Lindsay Foreman, had been charged with espionage. Iranian authorities alleged that the couple, arrested in Kerman in January, had been gathering intelligence across multiple provinces under the guise of tourism and research.

Additionally, IRGC intelligence forces in Ardabil detained an individual accused of ties to Israeli intelligence. The unnamed suspect was alleged to have spread anti-Islamic propaganda and threatened religious scholars via social media.

Wave of Spy Crackdowns Intensifies

Iran has escalated its efforts to root out what it claims are foreign-backed spies. In November, the IRGC arrested seven and killed four others in Sistan and Baluchistan, accusing them of being linked to Israel. Last December, four people convicted of spying for Israel were executed.

What People Are Saying

Siavash Moslemi, IRGC commander in Mazandaran, said: “With precise intelligence monitoring, we have successfully dismantled infiltration and espionage networks associated with US intelligence, the Zionist regime and other hostile countries.”

What Happens Next

Neither the U.S. nor Israel has responded to Iran’s allegations. With Tehran ramping up its rhetoric and warning of retaliation if its nuclear program is targeted, the latest arrests are likely to fuel further hostilities in the region.