Iran Seizes Assets of 7 in Ilam Over Alleged Espionage for Israel

Judicial authorities in Iran’s western Ilam province have frozen and confiscated the assets of seven people accused of spying for Israel, in a case officials say was handled under a law that toughens espionage penalties and Article 49 of the Iranian constitution. The move underscores Tehran’s continuing crackdown on alleged threats to internal and external security. Iranian official Imran Ali Muhammedi said the decision was based on findings that linked the seven suspects’ activities to cooperation with the "Zionist entity." Authorities said the investigation established that connection during the case review. Officials said the Ministry of Justice’s electronic system was used to identify and complete the freezing of all the suspects’ assets. The confiscated property includes real estate, homes, vehicles and bank accounts. Iranian authorities said they will respond with the highest level of determination to any threat to the country’s internal and external security.