Iran executed Babak Shahbazi, accused of spying for Israel, a claim disputed by activists who say he was tortured after offering to fight for Ukraine. The execution follows a 12-day war between Iran and Israel and amid a crackdown on dissent. Activists fear more executions are imminent, citing Iran's already alarming execution rate of over 940 this year, according to Iran Human Rights. Shahbazi's letter to Zelenskyy offering military service was allegedly used as evidence of espionage. Iran's judiciary claimed he sold sensitive information to Mossad.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.