Iran's judiciary chief warns of heightened security threats

The head of Iran's judiciary on Monday cautioned against what he described as intensified efforts by foreign adversaries to destabilize Iran through terrorism and psychological warfare.

Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei said that, while these destabilizing efforts have so far been thwarted by Iranian security forces, there is a continued need for strengthened vigilance and heightened security efforts across the country.

"Today, the enemy is working harder than ever to disrupt internal security and create instability in the country through acts like terrorism,” Ejei said, adding that psychological security has also come under threat.

Iran's ruling establishment frequently emphasizes threats from foreign enemies, typically pointing to Israel and the United States. At times, government shortcomings and public discontent over restrictions or economic hardship are attributed to foreign propaganda.

He warned that external forces are attempting to distract citizens with trivial matters, diverting attention from significant national issues.

"To counter this plot, we need the vigilance of all officials and the general public. Some individuals, out of carelessness, play into the enemy’s hands and, even with good intentions, inadvertently contribute to undermining the psychological security of the people."

Supreme Leader appoints the head of the Judiciary, who controls both prosecutors, courts and judges. There is no independent judiciary in Iran.

Ejei said that those contributing to societal insecurity, whether through careless actions or intentional misconduct, will face decisive legal action if necessary.

“Some, either out of carelessness or due to misidentifying the issues, take actions that disrupt the psychological security of society. These individuals should first be warned, and if necessary, swift legal measures will be taken.”

His remarks come as Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei earlier commented on national security, advising decision-makers to pay closer attention to online content.

“Not everything should be shared in cyberspace, and the public should not be made to feel fear and anxiety,” Khamenei said.

As part of this focus, Iran’s Criminal Content Determination Task Force recently deemed support for or legitimization of Israel in cyberspace a criminal act. The regulation also criminalizes providing services to Israeli platforms and facilitating Iranian citizens’ travel to Israel through online means.

Ejei’s comments reflect the growing role of social media and the internet in Iran. Over the past decade, platforms have played a central role in organizing and amplifying grassroots protests, most notably during the December 2017 protests, the November 2019 demonstrations, and the 2022 Mahsa movement. Despite government efforts to control the flow of information, social media remains an influential tool for citizens to share information globally.

In authoritarian systems, governments may use online platforms to identify and repress protesters, a risk that has been recognized in recent reports by the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Iran.

In an interview with UN Web TV, the rapporteur highlighted ongoing restrictions on freedoms, reporting that human rights defenders and journalists in Iran are being threatened, and in some cases, detained.

The judiciary’s approach, as indicated by Ejei, appears focused on cracking down on internal dissent, while Iranians rely on social media platforms more than ever.