Iran begins new push to 'identify and punish traitors' living abroad

Iran is set to intensify its efforts to identify and punish alleged traitors living abroad, with a new online system announced to "identify and punish traitors" outside the country. The scheme, known as Elaaj, encourages loyalists to submit information about regime opponents via an online portal or messenger app. Those deemed "traitors" could face the revocation of their Iranian citizenship, according to state television, which claimed the aim is to "protect national security and the interests of the Iranian people against anti-patriotic, separatist movements and those promoting sanctions and military attacks."

Punishments could also include cutting off financial and media access for traitors living abroad. This announcement follows a string of policies aimed at tracking down and intimidating expatriates who oppose the clerical leadership in Tehran. In June, two men were found guilty in Britain of stabbing a journalist for Iran International, a hit allegedly ordered "on behalf of the Iranian state."

Iranian authorities frequently label opposition activists and dissidents abroad as "anti-revolutionary" or "separatist," often without clear justification. Human rights groups argue these charges are broadened to justify national security measures. Iranian cyberattacks have also targeted dissidents abroad, employing sophisticated phishing campaigns.

While Iran's leadership has held its ground against US and Israeli attempts to topple it, they remain cautious about widespread unrest reminiscent of the December and January anti-regime protests, which left an estimated 7,000 deaths. President Masoud Pezeshkian has attempted to bolster Iranian morale amid economic turmoil, facing pressure from the US under its "Operation Economic Outcast."

However, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei has instructed officials not to publicize the country's issues, instead ordering them to highlight Iran's "power and strength." A planned summit between Iran and Gulf Arab nations over a temporary shipping lane in the Strait of Hormuz did not happen, casting doubt on prospects for a diplomatic breakthrough.

Brent crude prices have surged past $108 a barrel due to concerns over a prolonged Middle East war disrupting fuel supplies. US President Donald Trump hinted at a willingness to engage in new talks aimed at ending the conflict, but ultimately decided whether the US would participate remained his decision. Oman's Foreign Minister, Badr Albusaidi, announced the postponement of Gulf talks to "preserve consensus."