The Informant Regime: Iran Launches Website to Hunt Dissidents Abroad - Their Property in the Crosshairs
Iran has launched an online system called "Ala'" that allows citizens to report information about Iranians abroad who criticize the regime. The system, presented by the Fars news agency affiliated with the Revolutionary Guards, is designed to monitor dissidents, document their online activity, and prepare the groundwork for legal proceedings, including property confiscation.
Iran has expanded its persecution campaign against dissidents beyond its borders with the launch of a new online system called "Ala'." The system, presented by the Fars news agency affiliated with the Revolutionary Guards, allows Iranian citizens to report information about Iranians living abroad who criticize the government or express support for sanctions and military action against the Islamic Republic. Regime supporters can submit information through a dedicated website, Telegram, and the Iranian app "Bale." The system is supposed to conduct continuous and intelligent monitoring of suspects, document their online activity, and prepare the groundwork for opening legal proceedings against them, including restricting access to assets and revoking "civil rights and benefits." The identity of the operating body was not disclosed, but the authorities in Tehran have a real ability to harm family members and assets remaining in Iran. The establishment of the database is a direct continuation of the threat published by Iran's General Prosecutor's Office in March, stating that Iranians abroad who "identify with, support, or cooperate with the American-Zionist enemy" face property confiscation. Iranian law allows for severe penalties, including the death penalty, for those convicted of intelligence activities for Israel, the US, and hostile countries, but it is unclear whether the system will distinguish between actual cooperation and political criticism.