Iran’s Protests Enter Eleventh Day: Death Toll Rises, Executions Increase

Protests in Iran have extended into their eleventh day, with the death toll rising to at least 36, as authorities executed a man accused of spying for Israel’s intelligence agency, Mossad. The unrest has spread across 92 cities in 27 provinces, leading to significant government crackdowns. According to the Human Rights Activist News Agency (HRANA), at least 2,076 individuals have been arrested, marking a sharp increase in detentions.

As of Wednesday, the casualties from the demonstrations include 34 protesters and two members of security forces. The number of fatalities increased notably over the past day, rising from a reported 29. The rapid escalation of violence highlights the severity of the unrest gripping the nation.

Execution of Alleged Spy

The Iranian judiciary confirmed the execution of a man named Ali Ardestani, accused of espionage in favor of the Mossad. According to the judiciary’s media outlet, Mizan, Ardestani was executed after due legal process, which included approval from the Supreme Court. His purported crime involved providing sensitive information to Israel.

Iran’s long-standing conflict with Israel has led to the execution of numerous individuals accused of collaborating with Israeli intelligence. This trend has intensified in 2023, particularly following a confrontation in June when Israeli and US forces targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities.

Escalating Arrests and Human Rights Concerns

The Iranian government has ramped up its efforts to detain alleged spies, with a notable increase in executions this year. The Revolutionary Guards have arrested many dual nationals and foreigners on charges related to espionage and security. Rights organizations and several Western governments have accused Iran of leveraging these arrests for political advantage during negotiations.

Tehran, however, has consistently denied allegations of politically motivated detentions, asserting that arrests are made solely on security grounds. The ongoing protests and the government’s response have raised international concerns about human rights conditions in Iran.

As the demonstrations continue, the situation remains volatile, with many citizens calling for change amid increasing government repression. The international community watches closely as events unfold, highlighting the deepening crisis in the region.