Iran arrests dozens of US-Israeli mercenaries

JAKARTA - The Iranian Intelligence Ministry announced the arrest of 17 people accused of working as "mercenary traitors" for the United States and Israel in a security operation in western Iran.

"The arrest was made based on the results of intelligence surveillance and information from the community," the ministry said in a statement, as quoted by the Iranian news agency, IRNA.

Three of them were identified as field leaders of sabotage networks operating in Ilam Province.

The ministry said the suspects were suspected of being involved in activities that disrupted security, including the destruction and burning of public facilities, shooting, video recording, and symbolic actions to spread fear and terror among the community.

During the search of the suspects, Iranian authorities found three blocks of TNT explosives, one Kalashnikov rifle, one grenade, as well as a number of sharp weapons, including machetes.

In addition to the three people who are said to be the leaders of the network, 14 other suspects were also arrested for allegedly being members of the sabotage network.

Authorities have not released the identities of the suspects nor any explanation of the legal process that will be carried out against them.