A Turkish counterintelligence operation has uncovered a covert Iranian espionage network operating inside the country.
Turkey’s National Intelligence Organization (MİT), working alongside Turkish police, dismantled an Iranian-linked spy cell following a lengthy investigation. Six suspects were arrested on suspicion of conducting intelligence-gathering activities on behalf of Tehran.
According to security sources, the network was directed by Iranian intelligence officers Najaf Rostami, known by the alias “Haji,” and Mehdi Yekeh Dehghan, known as “Doctor.” The cell reportedly focused on collecting photographs and video footage of sensitive military infrastructure.
Among its primary targets was Incirlik Air Base in southern Turkey — a critical installation used by NATO and the United States. The base plays a central role in regional air operations and is considered one of the most strategically important Western military facilities in the Middle East.