Motorists drive past a large political billboard near Enghelab Square, in central Tehran, on May 26, 2026. (Credit: Atta Kenare/AFP)
Iranian authorities seized properties from 240 people accused of affiliations with Israel and other “hostile countries,” the state broadcaster Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting said.
The individuals “carried out propaganda or practical actions against the country," the judiciary said, resulting in “extensive damage” to Iran’s infrastructure. “These properties belong to the Iranian nation and the judiciary will follow up so that they can be used to compensate the victims,” a Justice Ministry spokesperson told IRIB.
Iran passed an enhanced espionage law last year allowing the death penalty and confiscation of all assets for aiding the U.S., Israel, or any other “hostile” state or group. Offences range from “conferring legitimacy” to Israel to sharing images or information with foreign networks.
Authorities have carried out thousands of arrests during recent escalations and wartime security sweeps, alleging cooperation or intelligence sharing with foreign actors. The judiciary has increased capital punishment and security-related convictions, citing charges such as collaboration with foreign intelligence services and anti-state activities.
