Iranian security forces have arrested several people who entered Iran from the Republic of Azerbaijan, alleging that they planned to perform sabotage operations within the country.

IRGC-linked Tasnim News Agency reported Wednesday that “Several foreign spies and terrorists, under central guidance, entered Iran from the Republic of Azerbaijan with the intention of carrying out sabotage operations within the country, but they were identified and arrested before taking action.”

Iran's intelligence agencies frequently announces busting spy networks and detaining saboteurs within Iran borders, although subsequent information about trials and convictions is scarce. Such incidents have been on the rise in recent years, with clandestine attacks targeting nuclear facilities, and military installations. Iran’s intelligence apparatus lost significant face after sabotage attacks on its Natanz nuclear facility in 2020 and 2021.

While the Iranian government often attributes such incidents to Israel, Israeli officials have never officially claimed responsibility.

In late January, the Iranian regime executed four Kurdish political prisoners on charges of plotting to bomb a defense facility. Human rights groups have criticized the executions, citing allegations of confessions obtained under torture and unfair trials.