The Zagros Human Rights Center expresses its deep concern over the recent adoption by the Iranian Parliament, on 29 June 2025 (8 Tir 1404), of a law that classifies any form of cooperation with Israel, the United States, or other so-called “hostile states” as corruption on earth (efsad fel-arz), punishable by death under Article 286 of the Islamic Penal Code.
This legislation, passed with overwhelming majority support, prescribes capital punishment not only for espionage or military assistance, but also for any financial, technological, media-related, or even symbolic support deemed to “legitimize” the State of Israel. Article 3 of the law further expands its scope by criminalizing actions in the cyber domain and the transfer of electronic or weapons-related technologies if these are deemed “knowingly” committed in favor of the “enemy.”
In parallel, Iran’s Chief Justice, Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, has ordered that such cases be tried “under wartime conditions,” demanding swift and uncompromising execution of sentences. This directive evokes the dark legacy of the 1980s, marked by mass political executions without due process.
We view this legislation as an attempt to legalize the widespread suppression of dissenting voices, including those from academia, civil society, the press, and digital communities. By criminalizing even intellectual solidarity or the mere expression of critical thought, the authorities aim to instill a climate of fear and silence.
We are gravely concerned about the irreversible consequences of this law: the heightened risk of arbitrary arrests, unfair trials, and politically motivated executions based on vague or manipulated charges. At a time when fundamental rights must be upheld, this measure signals a disturbing retreat into legalized repression, censorship, and informational isolation.
We call for the immediate repeal of this law, the release of all individuals detained under such accusations, and the restoration of judicial standards in line with Iran’s international obligations. Freedom of expression, access to information, and human dignity must not be sacrificed under the pretext of national security.
Zagros Human Rights Center
