Iran has detained dozens of people, including 10 foreigners, suspected of collaborating with Israel and the United States, Reuters reported, citing Iranian media, BTA reported.
Iranian Police Chief Ahmadreza Radan said on Sunday that at least 500 people have been arrested since the start of the war between Tehran and Israel and Washington, accusing those detained of sharing information with opponents.
In addition to the 10 foreigners arrested in the northeastern province of Khorasan Razavi, 55 people were detained in the southern province of Horgan, the Tasnim news agency reported today.
The group of foreigners, whose nationality was not specified in media reports, is accused of collecting information on sensitive sites and preparing field operations.
The larger group arrested in southern Iran was presented as “mercenaries“ of the United States and Israel.
The Intelligence Ministry told state media today that hundreds of “Starlink“ terminals, which some Iranians use to bypass internet blocking, were confiscated in a nationwide operation and reminded that people who have this technology may receive the most severe punishments.
Meanwhile, authorities urged people to stay at home during the “Chaharshanbe Suri“ holiday tonight, which they say could be used by the “enemy“. Ahmadreza Radan warned that enemies could take advantage of the occasion to "create insecurity in the country."
“Chaharshanbe Suri“ is an ancient Zoroastrian fire festival celebrated on the night of the last Wednesday of the Persian year before the new year, Nowruz, which celebrates the beginning of spring. Iranians celebrate by setting off fireworks and jumping over bonfires in their yards or on the streets.
“The enemy may try to cause incidents and even casualties with such actions to inflame the situation in the country,” Radan said, according to state media.
A spokesman for the Tehran Fire Department also urged people not to go out for the holiday and instead celebrate at home.