Wed Apr 30 11:28:22 UTC 2025: ## Iran Executes “Senior Spy” Accused of Aiding Mossad in Colonel’s Assassination

**Tehran, Iran** – Iran has executed Mohsen Langarneshin, a man convicted of collaborating with Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency, the judiciary announced Wednesday. Langarneshin, described as a “senior spy,” was hanged after being found guilty of providing logistical, technical, and operational support to Mossad for two years, beginning in 2020.

Key accusations against Langarneshin include his alleged involvement in the May 2022 assassination of IRGC Colonel Sayyad Khodai, who was shot dead in Tehran. Iranian authorities claim Langarneshin tracked Khodai’s movements using a motorcycle he purchased, relayed information to Mossad, and was present during the killing. The New York Times previously reported that Israel had claimed responsibility for the assassination to the United States. He was also accused of aiding an attack on an Isfahan industrial site linked to Iran’s Ministry of Defence.

Iranian authorities presented “extensive intelligence and technical evidence” and stated Langarneshin confessed to his crimes. However, human rights groups strongly contest this, claiming his confession was coerced through torture. Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam of Iran Human Rights (IHR) called the execution an “extrajudicial killing” following an unfair trial. The Abdorrahman Boroumand Center echoed these sentiments, highlighting Langarneshin’s denial of all charges and alleging torture. Prominent activist Nazanin Boniadi also condemned the execution on social media, calling Langarneshin innocent.

Langarneshin’s execution comes amid renewed US-Iran nuclear talks, currently scheduled to resume Saturday in Rome. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has accused Israel of sabotaging these negotiations. The timing of the execution has fueled speculation about its potential impact on the ongoing diplomatic efforts. This latest execution adds to a series of similar cases in Iran, reflecting the ongoing shadow war between Iran and Israel. In December, four individuals were executed on similar charges.

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