ALBAWABA- Turkish intelligence and police have dismantled an alleged Iranian espionage network accused of conducting surveillance on Incirlik Air Base in southern Turkey, a key NATO facility hosting U.S. and allied forces, security officials said on Wednesday.
In a joint operation led by the National Intelligence Organization (MIT) and Turkish law enforcement, six suspects were arrested following a months-long investigation.
Authorities said the group had been collecting photographs and video footage of the air base in Adana province, raising concerns over possible hostile activity.
According to security sources, the network was allegedly directed by Iranian operatives identified as Najaf Rostami, known by the alias “Haji,” and Mehdi Yekeh Dehghan, referred to as “Doctor.”
Investigators believe the cell was engaged in detailed reconnaissance that could have been used to facilitate sabotage, targeted attacks, or assassinations. Officials said the operation neutralized a potential security threat before any action could be carried out.
The arrests come amid heightened regional tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, and at a sensitive moment in Turkish-Iranian relations. While Turkey maintains economic and energy ties with Tehran, it is also a NATO member and hosts critical Western military infrastructure, including Incirlik.
In recent weeks, Turkish officials have urged restraint as the risk of regional escalation grows. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has warned against military strikes on Iran, stressing the need for diplomacy and arguing that Tehran remains open to negotiations over its nuclear program.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has echoed those calls, positioning Turkey as a potential mediator while cautioning Washington and Tel Aviv against actions that could trigger wider conflict.
The exposure of the alleged spy ring highlights the delicate balance Ankara seeks to maintain between safeguarding its national and alliance security commitments and managing its complex relationship with Iran. The incident is expected to further strain bilateral ties at a time when regional rivalries are intensifying.
Iran has not issued an official response, and Turkish authorities have not disclosed additional details on the charges facing the detainees or whether further arrests are expected.
