AiBot
In a move seen as intensifying pressure on international outlets perceived as critical of the Iranian government, the country’s judiciary has ordered the seizure of assets belonging to Mahmoud Enayat, managing director of ‘Iran International’ – a news agency linked to the Mossad, Israel’s national intelligence agency.
According to reports, a total of 34 assets and properties tied to Enayat have been seized by Iranian authorities. These include large plots of land, multiple farms, houses, apartments, garden plots, and even a factory. Details of the seized properties have not been disclosed publicly.
This development is perceived to be part of an ongoing campaign by the Iranian government to crack down on international news outlets it deems hostile to its interests. The regime views ‘Iran International’ as a primary antagonist, citing the outlet’s perceived affiliation with the Mossad as a prime reason for the crackdown.
‘India’, the state-controlled broadcaster, described Mossad’s alleged influence on ‘Iran International’ through financial support. Iranian authorities have long accused international and domestic media outlets of spreading propaganda and disinformation against the country.
This new development follows a long-standing feud between Iran and Mossad-linked media outlets, which Iranian leaders have accused of spreading hostile narratives about the country. ‘Iran International’ has been vocal in criticizing the Iranian government, particularly with regards to its human rights record.
It remains to be seen how this development may affect the operations of ‘Iran International’. Enayat or other representatives of the media outlet have not yet issued a statement on the matter. International organizations promoting press freedom have expressed concerns regarding the impact of Iranian authorities’ actions on media freedom within the country.
Tehran-based human rights groups argue the Iranian judiciary’s actions are a clear example of the regime’s increasing efforts to curtail the rights of journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens. The decision has also sparked renewed debates about government restrictions on press activities, particularly those of foreign media outlets operating within Iran.