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

What Happened

The Islamic Republic’s judiciary announced on Saturday that it has opened files against 300 Iranians accused of speaking with the diaspora media outlets Iran International, the Manoto Network, or individuals affiliated with them. The judiciary spokesperson confirmed that the cases have been referred to Branch 15 of the Tehran Islamic Revolutionary Court, with charges including intelligence cooperation with the enemy, espionage during wartime, moharebeh (waging war against God), efsad fel-arz (corruption on earth), inciting violence and killing, destruction of public property, financing terrorism, and propaganda against the Islamic system in cooperation with the Zionist regime and the United States. Multiple charges carry the possibility of execution. The move follows earlier indictments issued by Tehran Prosecutor Ali Salehi against dissident media groups, which he alleged encouraged nationwide protests in January. Former Manoto editor-in-chief Tina Ghazimorad described the indictments as ‘political intimidation’ rather than legal acts.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The prosecutions escalate Iran’s crackdown on internal dissent and press freedom, targeting links to foreign-based critical media amid ongoing protest cycles. The severity of charges—some carrying the death penalty—signals the regime’s determination to criminalize contact with diaspora outlets as acts of war or espionage. This aligns with broader efforts to control information, including internet blackouts and mass arrests, and could provoke international condemnation and further diplomatic isolation, especially from Western nations and human rights bodies.

Watch For

Monitor the proceedings in Branch 15 of the Tehran Islamic Revolutionary Court for any verdicts or death sentences, which would likely trigger sharp international reactions. Watch for specific evidence presented or named defendants. Also track responses from Iran International, Manoto, and global press freedom organizations, as well as potential linkage to renewed protest activity or internet restrictions.