Security officials in Qatar announced Wednesday they have successfully broken up two espionage networks tied to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, taking 10 suspected operatives into custody on charges of spying and planning sabotage operations.
According to a statement released through Qatar News Agency, the State Security Service declared: “As part of the ongoing efforts to protect the security of the State and safeguard its stability, the competent authorities have succeeded in arresting two cells operating on behalf of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard within the State of Qatar.”
Authorities revealed that seven of the captured individuals were tasked with collecting intelligence on vital infrastructure and military installations throughout Qatar. The other three suspects were allegedly planning destructive activities and had received training in drone operations. During the investigation, security forces confiscated communication devices along with sensitive data and location coordinates of strategic facilities.
“During investigations, the suspects admitted to their affiliation with the Iranian Revolutionary Guard and to being assigned espionage and sabotage missions,” according to Qatar News Agency. The State Security Service has urged both citizens and residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to authorities.
In a related incident, Qatar’s Defense Ministry reported that Iran launched two ballistic missiles targeting the country. Air defense systems successfully intercepted one missile, while the second struck Al Udeid Air Base. No injuries were reported from the attack.
These developments occur as Qatar and neighboring Gulf nations have endured multiple days of Iranian missile and drone strikes during the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. Qatari leadership stated that security forces are working continuously to address threats and maintain public safety.
This marks the first instance where Doha has openly blamed Iran’s Revolutionary Guard for conducting espionage activities on Qatari soil, signaling a significant change in diplomatic relations as regional tensions continue to rise.
