Iran Hangs Spies Suspected of Working For CIA And Mossad
Reports state that Iran hanged spies, suspected of working for the US CIA and Israel’s Mossad. A news radio station in Iran ran the report on Sunday, stating that Mohammad Heidari and Kourosh Ahmadi were executed by hanging for their alleged crimes.
Officials in Tehran, Iran, have accused the US and Israel of using spies to gain sensitive information, tied to their nuclear program. Authorities in Israel and the US suspect that the nuclear program’s main objective, is to develop a weapon of mass destruction.
As reported by CBS News, the Iranian government has vehemently denied interest in building an atomic weapon.
Iran hanged the spies following an decision and order by Tehran’s Revolutionary Court, which was upheld by Iran’s Supreme Court. It is unclear whether the men had an opportunity to officially defend themselves against the accusations.
The US and Israel have both been accused of assassinating scientists working for Iran’s nuclear program. Additionally, officials in Iran report that they have “successfully detected and dismantled spy networks,” sent to Iran from the US and Israel.
The US denies any involvement with the deaths of the scientists’ deaths. Officials in Israel have denied commenting on their possible involvement.
As reported by the CS Monitor, The executions come just weeks before Iran’s presidential election. New rules, barring “physically feeble” candidates, could disqualify popular former President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani from the race.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei recently announced his intention to run, drawing widespread support from his followers. However, the Guardian Council has expressed doubt that he will have time for the demanding position.
The Council will release their list of officially approved candidates to The Interior Ministry on Tuesday. The candidate list will be released to the public by the end of the week.
News that Iran hanged accused spies only adds another level to the continuing controversy.
[Image via Flickr]
