Iranian authorities announced they have broken up a major espionage network, arresting at least 35 individuals accused of collaborating with the United States and Israel by providing sensitive information on critical infrastructure and military positions.

Security forces conducted the operation across six provinces, seizing electronic devices, satellite equipment, and weapons, according to local reports. The suspects are alleged to have shared coordinates of service facilities, checkpoints, and military deployments, which allegedly helped facilitate targeted strikes during the ongoing conflict. 

This latest crackdown comes just days after peace talks between the US and Iran collapsed in Islamabad following 21 hours of intense negotiations. The failure of the Pakistan-mediated talks has sharply escalated tensions, with both sides accusing the other of unreasonable demands.
Iranian officials say the US insisted on the complete dismantlement of Iran’s nuclear program, the closure of key facilities, and an end to support for regional allies. In response, President Donald Trump has ordered a full naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, effective from Monday, warning that Iran risks being “reduced to ashes” if it does not comply. 

Since the war began on February 28, Iranian authorities say they have arrested around 500 people on espionage-related charges. The recent arrests follow the adoption of a tougher anti-espionage law that imposes the death penalty and property confiscation for those convicted. 

The Iranian government described the dismantled network as part of a broader effort by “enemy states” to undermine national security. No independent verification of the specific allegations has been provided.

The combination of the spy arrests, failed diplomacy, and the new naval blockade has raised fears of an imminent resumption of full-scale hostilities. The Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly 20% of global oil passes, remains one of the world’s most critical chokepoints, and any disruption could send energy markets into turmoil.

The situation remains highly fluid, with both sides digging in as international mediators scramble to prevent a dangerous new escalation. (ILKHA)