Iran executes Erfan Kiani for Mossad 'mission'

Iran executed Erfan Kiani on Saturday, accusing him of carrying out a 'mission' for Israel — Mossad during mass protests in January in the province of Isfahan. Kiani was charged with destruction of public and private property, arson, possession of Molotov cocktails, carrying a bladed weapon, blocking vehicle routes, attacking officers, and creating fear. This execution is part of a recent surge in capital punishments by Iran, with nine men executed since March 19 on charges linked to the protests. Iranian authorities claim the January protests were instigated by Israel, the United States, and opposition groups like the People s Mojahedin Organization of Iran. The executions are occurring amidst an ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States that began on February 28. Rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have criticized Iran's use of the death penalty.