According to Mizan, the media representing the judiciary in Iran, authorities executed two men convicted of spying for Israel on Monday (3/8/2026). Omid Behzad and Pouria Safvat were hanged in the morning after being found guilty of transmitting coordinates of sensitive military and security sites to Mossad, the Israeli external intelligence service. The hangings are part of an increase in executions by Tehran since the outbreak of war on February 28, following a major offensive by the United States and Israel that killed Iran’s supreme leader.
Judicial Executions and Mossad Espionage Charges in Iran
State media reported that Behzad and Safvat assisted foreign intelligence by providing data on military and security centers throughout the ongoing conflict. Mizan did not disclose the dates of their arrests or trials, but confirmed they faced charges of espionage and collaboration with the Zionist regime. According to human rights groups, including Amnesty International, Iran maintains the second-highest execution rate globally, trailing only China.
Did you know?
According to Iran Human Rights, a Norway-based NGO, and Together Against the Death Penalty (ECPM) based in Paris, Iranian authorities executed at least 1,639 individuals last year, marking a record high since 1989.
Amnesty International Condemns Escalation in Capital Punishment
Prior to the latest hangings, Amnesty International issued a condemnation regarding an escalation in executions after Iran announced the impending execution of two men convicted of participating in anti-government protests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were Omid Behzad and Pouria Safvat executed?
According to Iran’s Mizan news agency, they were executed by hanging after being convicted of spying for Israel’s Mossad and transmitting coordinates of sensitive military and security sites.
How many executions did Iran carry out last year?
According to Iran Human Rights and ECPM, Iranian authorities executed at least 1,639 people last year, setting a record high since 1989.
Where does Iran rank globally in executions?
According to Amnesty International and other human rights organizations, Iran has the second-highest rate of executions in the world, behind China.
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