Iran executed Erfan Kiani, accused of being a “main agent” in a Mossad-linked mission during January protests, as part of a surge in executions.
Iran Executes “Mossad Agent” Linked to Protests
According to Tasnim, Erfan Kiani, described as a “Mossad mercenary,” was convicted of damaging public and private property. The agency reports the convicted man “used Molotov cocktails, carried a machete, participated in road blockades, attacked officers, and spread fear and panic among citizens.”
The execution was carried out by hanging early in the morning, following approval by the Supreme Court. Iranian media labeled Kiani as one of the “main agents” in a “mission assigned by Mossad” during widespread anti-government protests that swept the country in January.
Government Claims Foreign Involvement in Protests
Authorities allege the January protests were initiated by Israel, the United States, and opposition groups, including the exiled Mujahedin-e Khalq organization.
Recent Surge in Executions
At least five executions have been carried out in Iran within the past week.
Second Execution Linked to Israeli Intelligence
On Thursday, April 23rd, Mizan, the Iranian judiciary’s portal, announced the execution of Soltanali Shirzadi Fakhr, convicted of collaborating with Israeli intelligence. Fakhr was a member of the Mujahedin-e Khalq and was accused of espionage. Details regarding the specific charges of collaboration with Mossad were not released.
Four Executions in One Week, Three for Espionage
Since Monday, at least four executions have been carried out in Iran, with three related to espionage convictions. Saturday’s execution marks the fifth overall and the fourth linked to espionage charges.
Former Atomic Energy Organization Employee Executed
On Wednesday, Iranian news agency IRNA reported the hanging of a former employee of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, also convicted of collaborating with Israeli intelligence. Two days prior, media reported the execution of two men accused of collaborating with Mossad and planning attacks within the country.
Iran Uses Death Penalty to Suppress Dissent
Hengaw, a Norway-based independent human rights organization, stated that the Iranian regime systematically uses accusations of espionage for Israel as a tool for internal purges and justifying repression.
Amnesty International Condemns Use of Death Penalty
Amnesty International reported in March that Iranian authorities continue to use the death penalty to silence and intimidate citizens, noting a series of executions since the 2022 protests. The organization stated that courts are “condemning thousands of people to death following grossly unfair trials,” with the execution rate accelerating after a 12-day war in 2025, reaching levels unseen in over four decades. Processes were described as “flagrantly unfair and tainted by torture.”
Increased Arrests Following US-Israel War with Iran
The Iran Human Rights organization reported on Tuesday that at least 3646 people have been arrested in the country since February 28th, when the US-Israel war with Iran began. Arrests have continued even after the ceasefire on April 8th.
Background on the Mujahedin-e Khalq
The Mujahedin-e Khalq, of which Fakhr was allegedly a member, began their opposition activities in the mid-1960s. They sought to overthrow the monarchy in Iran and opposed Western imperialism, combining elements of Marxist ideology with Shia Islam. They supported Ayatollah Khomeini during the Islamic Revolution of 1978-1979.
Conflict with the New Regime and Exile
Shortly after the revolution, the Mujahedin-e Khalq clashed with the new authorities in Tehran and were outlawed. Many members emigrated, continuing their opposition activities. By the early 21st century, they functioned as an armed organization and were designated as a terrorist organization by the European Union and the USA until 2012.
