Iran executes British-Iranian national Alireza Akbari accused of spying
GuardianNov 25, 2022
Iran Hangs Former Deputy Defense Minister
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Image copyright: KhabarOnline News Agency /AP [via NPR News]
The Facts
On Saturday, Iran announced the execution of an Iranian-British national and former high-ranking defense ministry official on espionage and corruption charges.
Alireza Akbari was reportedly hanged after being convicted of "corruption on earth" over allegations of passing on Iran's intelligence to the UK's Secret Intelligence Service — popularly known as MI6.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
Akbari's execution, which comes amid Tehran's brutal theocratic crackdown on the nation's mass protests, is an inhumane and politically motivated move that will further polarize the nation. As Iran's ruthlessness continues to escalate, the West must join the UK — which has retaliated against this latest development with sanctions — in solidarity and hold the regime accountable.
Establishment-critical narrative
While the death penalty shouldn't be implemented lightly, the reality is that Akbari turned his back on his duties and illegally deceived Iran, putting the nation at significant risk. This case was decided according to Tehran's legislation and signals no individual is above the country's law, no matter how powerful they are.
