Iran opens files against 300 accused of speaking to diaspora media, judiciary announces

Iran's judiciary has initiated legal proceedings against 300 citizens accused of engaging with Iran International and Manoto Network, two prominent diaspora media outlets. The judiciary spokesperson announced that investigations are underway, indictments have been issued, and the cases will be heard by the Tehran Islamic Revolutionary Court.

The charges leveled against these individuals are severe, encompassing "intelligence cooperation with the enemy," "espionage for the enemy during wartime," "moharebeh" (waging war against God), and "efsad fel-arz" (corruption on earth). Additional accusations include encouraging violence, destruction of public property, financing terrorism, and propaganda against the Islamic system in collaboration with the United States and Israel. Several of these charges carry the potential for the death penalty.

This crackdown occurs as Tehran faces persistent accusations of suppressing independent reporting, particularly concerning human rights violations. Critics point to the nearly three-month internet blackout during recent protests as an example of the regime's efforts to control information. Human rights groups have reported significant casualties and arbitrary detentions during these demonstrations.

The judiciary's move against individuals communicating with diaspora media follows similar actions in January, when authorities issued indictments against dissident media groups, accusing them of inciting nationwide protests. A former editor-in-chief of Manoto described such actions as politically motivated intimidation rather than legal measures.

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So far, 300 members of these networks have been identified. Investigations into these individuals have been placed on our agenda, indictments have been issued against them, and the cases of these 300 people have been referred to Branch 15 of the Tehran Islamic Revolutionary Court.