On Wednesday, Iran executed a man convicted of espionage for Israel's Mossad and involvement in the 2022 assassination of a Revolutionary Guard colonel in Tehran. The official IRNA news agency reported the execution. An activist group has stated that his confession was obtained under duress.
The executed man, identified as Mohsen Langarneshin, was described by the news agency as a "top spy" for Mossad within Iran. He allegedly provided "technical support" in the killing of Col. Hassan Sayyad Khodaei, who was shot by unidentified gunmen near his home. Langarneshin is said to have purchased the motorbike used in the attack.
At the time of the killing, Iranian media referred to Khodaei as a "defender of the shrine," a term used to describe Iranians fighting against ISIS in Syria and Iraq within the Revolutionary Guard's Quds Force.
IRNA also stated that Langarneshin supported an attack on an industrial center linked to the Iranian defense ministry. He is accused of purchasing vehicles and equipment to create a secure environment for Mossad agents, transferring money from Mossad officers, and renting safe houses in several Iranian provinces. One of these homes was in Isfahan, where bomb-carrying drones targeted a military workshop in January 2023, an attack for which Iran has accused Israel.
According to Iranian state-run media, Langarneshin was recruited by Mossad in 2020 and worked for the Israelis for two years. During this time, he met with Mossad officers in Georgia and Nepal.
IRNA reported that Langarneshin confessed "during all stages of the interrogation, prosecution and court proceedings." The Human Rights Activists News Agency stated that a source close to Langarneshin's family said he was promised a prison sentence if he repeated what interrogators wanted on camera, suggesting the confessions were coerced.
Masoud Langarneshin, Mohsen's father, released a video claiming his son was sentenced to death without a fair trial. His mother had a final visit with her son at the Ghezel Hesar prison on April 29.
The Revolutionary Court, which sentenced Langarneshin to death, is known for its harsh treatment of political opponents. The court typically provides a court-appointed lawyer and does not allow press access. IRNA reported that after legal proceedings, Langarneshin's death sentence was carried out.
5 Comments
Martin L King
If his confession was coerced, then this execution is a grave injustice. We need to support human rights across the globe!
G P Floyd Jr
I feel for Mohsen Langarneshin’s family. No one deserves to die like this, especially based on dubious evidence.
Rolihlahla
This execution raises serious questions about Iran's justice system. It seems more like a political statement than genuine law enforcement.
G P Floyd Jr
The execution stands as a warning that treachery will not go unpunished. That's how governments maintain order.
Muchacho
People like Langarneshin endanger national security. This is a justified action to deter future spies.